PROJECTS

The aim of the project is to developed liposomal drug nano-carriers, which have high contrast for high frequency ultrasounds. This contrast will be a result of specific composition of the membrane as well as mechanical properties of the intra-vesicle aqueous phase. Such design of the liposome allows for the controlled release of the liposome content locally in the body where the ultrasound beam is focused (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) – Philips. Literature data shows the correlation between absorbed energy of mechanical energy by liposome suspension and the stability of lipid barrier. The destabilization of the lipid membrane leads to the release of the pharmacologically active ingredient for the liposome. Liposomes optimized with respect to their capacity to absorb mechanical energy will be tested first using cell cultures and animal models. The liposome design proposed by us is based on the generation of mechanical contrast between vesicle and its surrounding by altering mechanical properties of polymers encapsulated inside liposomes. This design allows for the widening the range of mechanical properties of the nano-structure. This will elevate its sensibility to mechanical stimulus lowering the chance for the destruction of the surrounding biological matter. Production of such liposomes is possible thanks to unique technology of high-efficiency encapsulation of macromolecules such as polymers, proteins and DNA, which is protected by patent. It should be highlighted that proposed solution is fully original, the fundamentals of which are the subject of patent application. In comparison to currently established methodologies it can be further developed into broader therapeutic applications, not limited to anticancer only.