Carbon nanofibers to deliver drug directly to the target

One trend that seems to be consistent in the world of drug delivery, is to find a better way to deliver a drug to the targeted area. A more recent concept that researches have been discussing is to insert a 'balloon' like material that's covered with tiny spikes filled with medication to the targeted area. The material would initially be flat, and once inserted, the spikes would pierce the area and deliver the drug directly to the target. This would also minimize the risk of injuring other cells. But where can you find this elastic material?

Researchers at the North Carolina State University may have the answers. "We have now developed a way of embedding carbon nanofibers in an elastic silicone membrane and ensuring that the nanofibers are both perpendicular to the membrane's surface and sturdy enough to impale cells," says Dr. Anatoli Melechko, an associate professor of materials science and engineering at NC State and co-author of a paper on the work. Melechko reports the method to be both easy and inexpensive.

With so many patents expiring soon what sort of delivery devices do you think we can expect to see in the future? What is there a need for?

At the 17th annual Drug Delivery Partnerships, James Smith, PhD, President, NANOSMART PHARMACEUTICALS leads the session: Use of Innovative Drug Delivery Platform to Generate New IP and Accelerate Drug Development. To find out more about our full program, download the  brochure.

As a reader of the Drug Delivery Partnerships blog, you get a 15% discount off the standard rate when using code XP1878BLOG to register. We look forward to seeing you February 6-8 in San Diego, CA!