Remotely actuated re-shaped nanocarriers for tumour targeting

Introduction

Current nanometric drug delivery systems have enormous potential to shift clinical practice in diseases that require targeted or site-specific therapy. New tools for fabricating multi-functional drug delivery systems can potentiate drug-carrier activity and offer the necessary shift from inert carriers to active drug carriers that can maximize drug activity in the desired tissue.

Importance in Cancer Treatment

This is particularly crucial in cancer, where chemotherapy drugs have broad spectrum non-specific activities. Based on our recent findings related to the role of physical properties of nano-carriers, e.g., morphology, shape, and stiffness in cell specificity, we propose to develop a remotely actuated nanocarrier with optimal parameters to provide tumor targeting.

Nanocarrier Composition

The nanocarriers are composed of thermo-responsive polymer with metal, which can be designed as asymmetric particles with a preference for uptake by the more malignant cells.

Methodology Development

The project includes the development of a novel methodology for fabricating anisotropic metal/polymer hybrid nanoparticles, as well as characterization of their morphology and composition.

Measurement and Potential

The remote actuation of the nanocarriers will be measured, as well as their therapeutic potential.

Conclusion

This high-risk project can lead to an innovative approach in drug delivery with particular interest in cancer and other complex diseases.