Research
Our research focusses on the synthesis, characterization and application of nanopharmaceuticals for the delivery of drugs and biomolecules across cellular barriers.
Pharmacokinetic properties are inherent characteristics of drug molecules that cannot be changed without derivatization. The utilization of nanopharmaceuticals with tunable physicochemical properties is a rational approach to change the pharmacokinetics of drug molecules without affecting their biological activity. In this regard, controlled biodistribution does not only include differential extracellular tissue or organ accumulation, but also facilitated translocation across cellular barriers.
Different types of nucleic acids and genome editing components are versatile tools for therapeutic interventions based on their precise manipulation of the intracellular flow of genetic information. Unfortunately, the high therapeutic potential of biomacromolecules is generally opposed by a rather low ‘drug-likeness’ and unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties, in particular poor distribution to intracellular target sites.
To address these challenges, we develop nanopharmaceuticals for impermeable drugs and biomolecules based on peptides and metal-organic nanomaterials.
Publications:
- ORCID 0000-0002-4996-7592
PhD student
| Maria Lummerstorfer | Zian Xue |