Sponsor: Zukunft.Niedersachsen
Contact person: Sandhya Kumar
Summary of the overall project:
The RNApp Graduate Program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among universities, research institutes, and clinical partners to advance RNA-based therapeutics. These innovative therapies offer significant potential compared to conventional biopharmaceuticals by enabling precise modulation of gene expression. However, key challenges remain, particularly in optimizing production, ensuring stability, and achieving efficient delivery to target cells. The RNApp initiative addresses these obstacles by integrating expertise from various fields to develop innovative solutions for the formulation, stabilization, and targeted transport of RNA-based drugs.
Goals and tasks of iPAT:
Our research initiative investigates the use of Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) to track and optimize RNA-based inhalation therapies. We utilize superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) as both drug carriers and imaging probes. The goal of this project is to develop and optimize SPION-containing formulations for pulmonary drug delivery, ensuring their stability, aerosolizability, and efficient transport. While our current work focuses on formulation and characterization, future research will expand into in vivo applications. MPI will be utilized to visualize and evaluate lung deposition, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy in preclinical models. By integrating nanomaterials, imaging technologies, and advanced formulation strategies, we continue to push the boundaries of precision medicine in respiratory drug delivery.
Project partner:
Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Fraunhofer IST, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen