Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Unit
The Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Unit within MHRC plays a crucial role in attracting researchers from various university colleges who specialize in different aspects of the pharmaceutical industry. Its primary objective is to assist and encourage these researchers in forming collaborative research groups and partnerships, both within the academic community and with pharmaceutical companies and external research centers. The unit is dedicated to implementing projects aimed at developing new medicines, innovating pharmaceutical technology applicable to the market, and registering patents.
To support these endeavors, the unit provides a platform for hosting research projects. It offers well-equipped research laboratories furnished with modern equipment, all operating in accordance with the standards of good laboratory practice (GLP). Additionally, the unit extends technical support through proficient laboratory technicians.
In tandem with the overall management of the center, the Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Unit ensures a conducive work environment. It provides dedicated offices for researchers and suitable spaces for conducting business meetings. This coordination fosters an atmosphere that not only prioritizes cutting-edge research but also emphasizes the comfort and functionality essential for productive and collaborative scientific pursuits.
Research Topics
The medical field witnesses continual advancements in manufacturing technologies, showcasing new methods and tools. Among these, 3D printing, or Additive Manufacturing, stands out as a highly promising technology. Over the past decade, numerous researchers have explored its potential applications in various domains, including the production of medical devices and the fabrication of personalized medicine. At our facilities, we possess both the expertise and the infrastructure necessary for in-depth research related to polymeric extrusion-based 3D printing technologies. This encompasses the development of printing materials, optimization of processes, and characterization of fabricated products.
This topic focuses on the investigation of novel technologies for enhanced transmucosal drug delivery, such as dermal/transdermal, oral and nasal drug delivery. One of the most attractive fields is the direct nose-to-brain drug delivery. Treatment of central nervous system diseases is usually challenged by the difficulty of distribution of the drugs to the brain due to anatomical barriers. Also, it is associated with unwanted effects on other peripheral body organs. Since direct administration of the drug to the brain is not feasible, nasal drug administration has been investigated as an alternative way, being non-invasive and showing good patient compliance. The idea is based on the fact that the olfactory (smelling) nerve ends at the roof of the nasal cavity making this area unique by being the only part of the brain exposed to the environment. Through this special nasal region, the drug can be targeted directly and rapidly to the brain while maintaining minimal blood levels and consequently minimal side effects. Despite these advantages, drug penetration through the natural protective barriers in the nasal wall itself is challenging. Thus, there is a need to innovate strategies to improve drug delivery to the brain via nasal administration.