Faculty Directory

Our research is centered on the development of safe, efficient, and clinically viable pharmaceutical biomaterials and nanoparticulate delivery systems that enable targeted, controlled release and depot effect of therapeutic agents at their site of action. We focus on the design, development, and evaluation of polymeric particulate drug delivery systems, including microparticles, nanoparticles, and porous nanoparticle aggregates (PNAP), tailored for pulmonary, nasal, transdermal, intraarticular, and transdermal administration routes. Additionally, we are involved in designing pharmaceutical formulations for veterinary purposes.

A significant aspect of our research involves the delivery of therapeutic agents for the treatment of lung and systemic diseases via dry powder inhalation (DPIs). Our work encompasses both in vitro and in vivo evaluations of novel drug delivery platforms, including preclinical drug testing in cell lines and animal models. We are particularly focused on addressing critical health challenges such as tuberculosis, lung cancer, frostbite, rheumatoid arthritis, and high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). Our research extends to applications in both human and veterinary medicine, with the goal of advancing therapeutic outcomes through innovative delivery systems.

PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS: Dynamic mucus penetrating microspheres for efficient pulmonary delivery and enhanced efficacy of host defence peptide (HDP) in experimental tuberculosis

Pulmonary drug delivery for tuberculosis (TB) can enhance treatment by targeting high drug concentrations directly at the infection site while minimizing systemic toxicity. Conventional inhalable microparticles often face challenges like mucus entrapment and quick clearance, reducing their effectiveness. This study developed mucus-penetrating microparticles (NAC/PLGA-MPP) that enhance drug delivery and disrupt bacterial biofilms. In a TB mouse model, these microparticles significantly reduced bacterial load and lung inflammation, showing promise as an adjunct therapy to existing TB treatments like DOTS

CEREBRAL TUBERCULOSIS: Effective cerebral tuberculosis treatment via nose-to-brain transport of anti-TB drugs using mucoadhesive nano-aggregates

This study developed chitosan nanoparticles encapsulating anti-TB drugs (isoniazid and rifampicin) for nasal delivery to treat central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS-TB). The nanoparticles were processed into micro-sized chitosan nano-aggregates (NA) via spray drying. The intranasal administration of these nano-aggregates to TB-infected mice showed significantly higher drug permeation and mucoadhesion compared to free drugs. Over four weeks, the treatment led to a significant reduction in mycobacterial load (~2.86 Log10 CFU) in the mice. This preclinical study demonstrates the high therapeutic potential of nasal chitosan nano-aggregates in treating CNS-TB, offering a promising approach to bypass the blood-brain barrier and target brain infections effectively.

COLD INJURY/ FROST BITE: Heparin-Encapsulated Metered-Dose Topical “Nano-Spray Gel” Liposomal Formulation Ensures Rapid On-Site Management of Frostbite Injury by Inflammatory Cytokines Scavenging

The time between frostbite injury and treatment initiation in remote areas is crucial for an effective response. Frostbite is challenging to treat due to poor blood flow and requires immediate intervention. This study developed a topical nano-spray gel (NSG) combining liposomal heparin and ibuprofen (HLp-Ibu-NSG) for rapid frostbite relief. Heparin promotes wound healing and normalizes blood circulation, while ibuprofen reduces inflammation. In a rat model, the NSG significantly reduced wound area (up to 96%) and improved healing within 14 days without causing edema or erythema. The formulation modulates inflammatory cytokines, suggesting potential for on-site treatment in frostbite cases.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: Self-actuating inflammation responsive hydrogel microsphere formulation for controlled drug release in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) : Animal trials and study in human fibroblast like synoviocytes (hFLS) of RA patients

This study developed an intelligent, "self-actuating" drug delivery system for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that releases the drug methotrexate (Mtx) in response to inflammation. The system uses MMP-responsive, polymer-lipid hybrid hydrogel microspheres (Mtx-PLHM) that are injected directly into the joints. These microspheres release Mtx only when the inflammatory enzymes MMP-2 and MMP-9, which are elevated in RA patients, are present. In a rat arthritic model, Mtx-PLHM showed significant therapeutic benefits by reducing joint inflammation, swelling, and bone erosion, with minimal systemic side effects. This targeted approach lowers the need for repeated joint injections and protects patients from unnecessary drug exposure when inflammation is not present.

LUNG CANCER: Matrix Metalloproteinase-Responsive Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Cloaked with Cleavable Protein for “Self-Actuating” On-Demand Controlled Drug Delivery for Cancer Therapy

This study developed MMP-2-responsive mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) for targeted cancer therapy. Cisplatin-loaded MSNs were coated with collagen to prevent drug release under normal conditions. In the tumor microenvironment, overexpressed MMP-2 enzymes triggered the release of the drug by removing the collagen cap. The nanoparticles showed efficient uptake, biocompatibility, and increased cytotoxicity in lung cancer cells, enhancing therapeutic effects by promoting reactive oxygen species, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. This system offers a promising approach for "on-demand" drug delivery specifically at tumor sites

Efficient, enzyme responsive and tumor receptor targeting gelatin nanoparticles decorated with concanavalin-A for site-specific and controlled drug delivery for cancer therapy

This study developed mannose receptor-targeted and MMP-responsive gelatin nanoparticles (CCG-NP) for lung cancer therapy. These smart nanoparticles are surface-decorated with concanavalin A (con-A) to enhance uptake by cancer cells, which have overexpressed mannose receptors. Cisplatin-loaded gelatin nanoparticles demonstrated enzyme-triggered drug release and increased cellular internalization in lung cancer cells. The system significantly enhanced reactive oxygen species generation, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in cancer cells. The inhalable CCG-NP offers a targeted and "on-demand" drug delivery system, ensuring effective therapeutic delivery at the tumor site while minimizing off-target toxicity.