Designing dendrimer-based lymphatic drug vectors as improved treatments for metastatic cancer. This project builds on areas of research strength in Australia (nanotechnology and biotechnology/biomaterials) and will add considerably to the expanding Australian expertise-base in dendrimer technology (in which it is a world leader). The project will advance the fundamental science base that underpins dendrimer design and has the potential to deliver substantial benefits in improved drug delivery an ....Designing dendrimer-based lymphatic drug vectors as improved treatments for metastatic cancer. This project builds on areas of research strength in Australia (nanotechnology and biotechnology/biomaterials) and will add considerably to the expanding Australian expertise-base in dendrimer technology (in which it is a world leader). The project will advance the fundamental science base that underpins dendrimer design and has the potential to deliver substantial benefits in improved drug delivery and therefore health outcomes for Australia. The interdisciplinary nature of this project will also result in a unique training program for the researchers involved. Such experience is in great demand in Australia where the developing biotechnology and nanotechnology industry is critically short of scientists with skills in drug delivery.Read moreRead less
Controlling the spatial distribution of targeting ligands on dendrimer surfaces as a means of dictating cellular recognition and fate. This project seeks to develop next generation targeted drug delivery systems that 'home' to specific target cells, including cancers. Targeted delivery systems have the potential to revolutionise therapy by providing bespoke drug distribution patterns that are tailored to specific diseases and result in enhanced activity and reduced toxicity.
Fine control of nucleic acid transport using cyclic peptide nanotubes. This project aims to develop new technology to enhance the transport of nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) across biological membranes, and to facilitate the delivery of nucleic acids into mammalian cells. Elaborate transport mechanisms have emerged by evolution of viruses but the use of viruses for therapeutic purposes presents safety challenges. This project aims to enhance the efficiency of synthetic nucleic acid delivery system ....Fine control of nucleic acid transport using cyclic peptide nanotubes. This project aims to develop new technology to enhance the transport of nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) across biological membranes, and to facilitate the delivery of nucleic acids into mammalian cells. Elaborate transport mechanisms have emerged by evolution of viruses but the use of viruses for therapeutic purposes presents safety challenges. This project aims to enhance the efficiency of synthetic nucleic acid delivery systems, making use of novel biocompatible materials which assemble into controlled three-dimensional structures, offering more control over membrane interactions. The project is expected to provide a new platform of smart materials which could be developed for biomedical applications in the future.Read moreRead less
Polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of siRNA: mechanisms and opportunities. Polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of siRNA: mechanisms and opportunities. This project aims to improve the delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules using self-assembling nanoparticles. A series of biological barriers, at tissue and intracellular levels, limit the distribution of siRNA, and prevent these macromolecules from fulfilling their potential as therapeutic agents. Limited penetration of tissues res ....Polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of siRNA: mechanisms and opportunities. Polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of siRNA: mechanisms and opportunities. This project aims to improve the delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules using self-assembling nanoparticles. A series of biological barriers, at tissue and intracellular levels, limit the distribution of siRNA, and prevent these macromolecules from fulfilling their potential as therapeutic agents. Limited penetration of tissues restricts access to target cells, and intracellular enzymes often degrade the small proportion of the dose that is taken up by cells. The project intends to investigate new mechanisms to overcome these biological barriers using novel chemical approaches. This research is expected to have major health and economic outcomes, nationally and internationally.Read moreRead less