Smart Particles to Prevent COVID-19 Infection & Complications

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented global effect. While social distancing and proper PPE can minimize the spread of the virus, at risk populations have remained vulnerable. With additional waves of infection are likely to occur, there is an urgent need for an innovative protective solution. In the current project, we will repurpose a patented platform technology from the Sheardown lab as a nasal spray in order to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection. We will examine the antiviral, hydroxychoroquine, overcoming its side effects by delivering low doses directly to the site of action. We will also deliver Mannin Research’s proprietary Tie-2 inhibitor, which has the potential to decrease ARDS, an often deadly complication of COVID-19 infection. This novel delivery system will provide options in the absence of a vaccine, mitigating the effect of the potentially deadly but expected second wave of the virus.

Faculty Supervisor:

Heather Sheardown

Student:

Ben Muirhead;Talena Rambarran;Karim Soliman;Emily Anne Hicks

Partner:

Mannin Research

Discipline:

Engineering - chemical / biological

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McMaster University