Potential of magnetic nanoparticle targeting with the help of cell permeable proteins

Magnetic drug targeting is a recent drug delivery method where the drug is bound to a carrier, the magnetic nanoparticles. Directed with a magnetic field towards the target tissue, e.g., tumours. the drug is released there to produce a therapeutic effect. In many cases, however, it is additionally necessary that the drug enters the target cells to be active. This proposal aims at making cell permeable magnetic nanoparticles with the help of the company iProgen, a BC based biotechnology company focused on the development of protein-based drugs that are delivered intracellularly to the target tissue. The company has successfully designed and produced various cell permeable proteins and validated their action in mammalian cell cultures. For this grant iProgen will collaborate with us on the synthesis and in vitro testing of cell-permeable magnetic nanoparticles. The in vivo biodistribution of radiolabeled particles will also be evaluated in a tumour model.

Faculty Supervisor:

Urs Hafeli

Student:

Partner:

iProgen Biotech Inc;University of British Columbia

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: