Program Structure

Module 1: Introduction to Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery

• Overview of nanotechnology and its applications in drug delivery systems.
• Introduction to nanomaterials and their properties that make them ideal for drug delivery.
• The role of nanotechnology in overcoming traditional drug delivery limitations such as poor solubility, drug degradation, and non-targeted delivery.

Module 2: Types of Nanomaterials Used in Drug Delivery

• Types of nanocarriers: Liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, dendrimers, and solid lipid nanoparticles.
• Principles of drug encapsulation and release mechanisms: passive vs active targeting.
• Advantages of nanoparticles in overcoming drug resistance, improving half-life, and controlling drug release.

Module 3: Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Systems

• The principles of drug encapsulation in nanoparticles and how drugs are released in a controlled manner.
• Targeted drug delivery: How nanoparticles can be functionalized for targeted therapy and site-specific release.
• Case studies: How nanoparticles are being used in chemotherapy, gene therapy, and vaccine delivery.

Module 4: Liposomes and Micelles in Drug Delivery

• Understanding liposomes and their role in improving drug solubility and bioavailability.
• Micelles and their use in delivering hydrophobic drugs effectively.
• Applications of liposomes and micelles in targeting specific tissues, such as tumors or inflamed tissues.

Module 5: Nanomedicine in Cancer Therapy

• How nanoparticles are being used to target tumor cells and deliver chemotherapeutic drugs more effectively.
• Overcoming drug resistance and reducing side effects with nanoparticle-based systems.
• Examples of nanomedicines in clinical trials and their success in cancer treatments.

Module 6: Nanotechnology in Gene Therapy

• Exploring nanotechnology for gene delivery systems, including DNA, RNA, and CRISPR-based therapies.
• The challenges of delivering genetic material to target cells and how nanomaterials can improve efficiency.
• Case studies: nanoparticle-based delivery systems for gene therapy in treating genetic disorders.

Module 7: Nanotechnology in Neurological Disorders

• How nanotechnology is revolutionizing the treatment of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Using nanoparticles for blood-brain barrier penetration and improving drug delivery to the brain.
• Examples of nanopharmaceuticals in clinical development for treating neurological conditions.

Module 8: Safety, Toxicity, and Regulatory Considerations

• Safety and toxicity concerns surrounding nanoparticles and their potential risks to human health and the environment.
• The importance of biocompatibility and long-term stability in nanoparticle-based systems.
• Regulatory hurdles in nanomedicine: guidelines, approval processes, and clinical trial requirements.

Module 9: Future Trends in Nanotechnology-Based Drug Delivery

• Emerging technologies in nanomedicine, including smart drug delivery systems and self-assembling nanoparticles.
• The potential for personalized medicine using nanotechnology to tailor treatments to individual patient profiles.
• Exploring the role of nanotechnology in treating complex diseases like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurological diseases in the future.

Final Project

• Design and develop a nanoparticle-based drug delivery system for a specific therapeutic application (e.g., cancer therapy, gene delivery, neurological treatment).
• Synthesize the nanoparticles, characterize their properties, and evaluate their drug delivery efficiency and targeting specificity.
• Example projects: Design a nanoparticle-based chemotherapy delivery system or a gene delivery nanoparticle for targeted treatment of genetic disorders.