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Research Areas

Success in genomics and proteomics will eventually depend on the delivery of DNA and proteins.

The main objectives of our research are to develop new, non-invasive ways to deliver therapeutic agents into the body and specifically target diseased tissues and to understand the mechanism of delivery.

Fabrication and characterization of novel delivery systems for macromolecules

Elucidation of the molecular requirements for transportation of macromolecules through difficult barriers such as the skin and mucosa

The current research program focuses on developing and characterizing needle-free delivery systems for dermal and transdermal delivery of therapeutic agents, including protein drugs, vaccine antigens and DNA. The research is carried out on two fronts:

a) Drug delivery program
b) Vaccine delivery program

 

Specific delivery systems in development

1. Cutaneous gene delivery systems  

 
Novel cationic
nanoparticles*
Carbon nanotubes
  
 

2. Dermal and transdermal protein delivery systems

 
3. Topical delivery systems for small molecules  

 
Liposomes
  
 
4. Vaccine-based delivery systems

Novel lipid-based vaccine targeting adjuvants (VTA)*
Topical patch technology*
Intranasal delivery systems*
 
5. Biomaterial research for delivery system design and fabrication
 

* patented technologies