Research

Thesis title: "Exploring polymer-based hybrid delivery strategies for transdermal hormone replacement therapy to improve clinical practice"

Thesis outline: The objective of this project is the development of polymer-based hybrid drug delivery systems for transdermal hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The options for transdermal therapy currently on the market in Austria are limited and suffer from disadvantages such as skin irritation. There are also a lot of compounded products available, prescribed by physicians, where there is no data regarding skin penetration and storage stability.

We seek to enhance the therapeutic efficacy and patient adherence of transdermal HRT by developing novel topical systems based on biocompatible polymers, such as chitosan and its derivatives. The utilisation of encapsulation techniques, e.g. nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), or ethosomes, is proposed to enhance drug delivery while minimising adverse effects. Their skin penetration potential and physicochemical stability is then evaluated and compared to marketed and compounded products. Testosterone will serve as the model hormone, with potential expansion to other hormones if successful.

Supervisor: Victoria Klang

Advisor(s):