Nanoparticle-encapsulated microfibers as vehicles for targeted drug delivery
Microfluidics provides a facile platform for generation of several biomaterials such as particles, capsules, microfibers, etc. The versatility of microfluidics based methods arises from the ability to control size, morphology, and composition of the generated entities. In this project the student will use microfluidic devices to generate drug and nanoparticle encapsulated microfibers for targeted drug delivery in pancreatic cancer. The encapsulated nanoparticles (iron oxide) will allow magnetic based controlled release of the drug to the targeted site. The project will involve designing and fabrication of microfluidic devices, generation of nanoparticle encapsulated microfibers, their characterization, in vitro drug delivery studies.
The student is expected to have good experimental skills with keen interest in exploring inter-disciplinary fields. Prior experience in microfluidics or biological projects is a plus, while not essential.
Reference:
Liu, Y., Sun, L., Zhang, H., Shang, L., & Zhao, Y. (2021). Microfluidics for drug development: From synthesis to evaluation. Chemical Reviews, 121(13), 7468-7529.