Advanced Nanoparticle Platforms for Targeted Therapeutics and Gene Delivery

The efficient delivery of drugs and nucleic acid–based therapeutics to specific organs and cell types represents one of the most critical challenges in contemporary biotechnology and nanomedicine. Our research aims to advance the field of drug and gene delivery through the development of nanoparticles for targeted drugs and nucleic acid therapeutics, by focusing on the rational design and formulation of nanoassemblies (NPs) such as liposomes, cubosomes and hexosomes, polymeric nanoparticles engineered with selective targeting ligands. Beside the chemical-physical characterization of the nanosystems carried out by conventional techniques such X-ray Diffraction, Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering, high-throughput formulation and screening strategies can be implemented by combining microfluidic nanoparticle assembly, and combinatorial lipid and ligand libraries to systematically investigate the interplay between targeting ligands, ionizable and charged lipids, helper lipids, and PEG-replacement lipids. With this approach, the identification of nanoparticle compositions that maximize delivery efficiency, biodistribution control, and therapeutic efficacy is made possible.

Moreover, the use of these nanoparticles in drug and gene delivery should be accompanied by knowledge of their uptake mechanisms that are not yet fully clarified. In this context, understanding surface interactions of the specific nanoparticle structure with cell membranes is paramount, since both interfacial properties and internal structure of NPs and the properties of the membrane can have fundamental role on the uptake mechanisms. For this purpose, we use surface specific techniques with adequate spatial resolution to study the possible interaction between NPs and model membranes such Neutron Reflectivity (NR) The interaction between nanoparticles of different structures and nature with cells is also studied by Confocal Microscopy, which enables precise visualization of nanoparticle uptake, intracellular localization, and distribution within different cellular compartments.

Within the framework of this project, we look for opportunities to join or build collaborative consortia within Horizon Europe Cluster calls, particularly in topics related to nanomaterials and bionanomaterials for application in cancer therapy, gene therapy, in theranostics and in the delivery of drugs and bioactive molecules

We aim to contribute our expertise in the preparation and physicochemical characterization of nanoparticles, as well as in the investigation of their interactions with biological systems. Our experience includes the design and functionalization of nanoparticle-based systems, their structural and surface characterization, and the study of their interactions with both model membranes and living cells. By combining biophysical approaches with advanced imaging and cell-based assays, we can support a mechanistic understanding of nanoparticle–membrane and nanoparticle–cell interactions. These complementary skills position our group as a collaborative partner within multidisciplinary and international research consortia, such as those funded by MSCA and Horizon Europe programs, fostering the integration of nanomaterials science with biological and biomedical research.