Dr. Szoka is a pioneer in development of liposomes, nanoparticles and dendrimers as drug carriers. This includes basic research as well as applied research and development leading to technology commercialization. He also has vast experience in the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodyanmic analysis of carrier systems.
The Pharmacokinetics, Biodistribution, and Biocompatibility Core (PK Core) will be used for stringent testing of the in vivo behavior of nanoparticles. It will complement studies done at UNC-CH within Projects 2 and 4 and using the Small Animal Imaging Core. The task of the PK Core will not be routine evaluation of many types of nanoparticles, but rather detailed, unbiased, objective testing of leading nanoparticle candidates for further study. We visualize testing by the PK Core as a major stepping-stone to having our lead candidates evaluated by the NCI/NIST Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory. In addition, this Core will provide novel pH-sensitive PEG compounds that will be used to 'passivate' the surfaces of nanoparticles in Projects 1, 2 and 4. It will also provide a novel formulation of nanolipid particles that will be tested in Project 2. Finally this Core will allow testing of nanoparticle distribution via additional routes of administration (to the CNS and the lungs).
Pharmacokinetics, Biodistribution, And Biocompatibility
