Introduction

The Cluster for Molecular drug delivery and nanomedicine seeks to develop dosage forms to optimise drug action. Research is often focused to establish a scientific basis to improve tissue and cellular PK/PD profiles to lower systemic exposure.

Active drug substances ranging from low molecular weight actives such as cytotoxic agents to proteins and even cells are being used in strategies to improve efficacy.

Much research is based on the requirements of specific medical indications including cancer, inflammation and infection. Some cluster members are targeting tissue (e.g. malignant tissue) or organs (e.g. brain, eye and skin). Much cluster research involves developing processes to fabricate particulate associated formulations (e.g. nano- and microparticles), molecularly ordered materials and tissue implantable formulations to optimise drug action.

Other research strategies involve the modification of active substances, e.g. covalent conjugation to biocompatible dendrimers and polymers. Physico-chemical characterisation at the molecular level and the determination of biological correlates often dominate much of the research effort.

Many of the cluster members have established collaborations in the wider UCL community and with industry partners in most of the major pharmaceutical companies. Research within the cluster is currently supported by major funding from the EPSRC for the Centre for Doctoral Training in Advanced Therapeutics, NHS, BBSRC, the MRC, European Commission, Technology Strategy Board.