FEUP researchers develop technology based on nanoparticles designed to transport drugs directly to the brain.
Researchers at the University of Porto Faculty of Engineering (FEUP) are developing a Controlled Liberation System of Drugs that can benefit the treatment of nervous system disturbancesl, namely Alzheimer’s disease.
Concerned is a technology based on nanoparticles designed to transport drugs directly to the brain In order to help treat central nervous system disturbances by allowing drug delivery in regions affected by the brain, maximizing therapeutic effects and minimizing side effects, as described in this investigation sent to Lusa agency.
In practice, management may be intravenous, as if it were an injectionadded the feup.
This investigation is taking place at FEUP’s Laboratory of Processes, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (Lepabe) and is led by Joana Loureiro and Maria do Carmo Pereira.
“[Esta tecnologia poderá significar] one advance In the treatment of neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson and brain cancers, where treatment options are limited by the inability to get efficient delivery of brain medications, ”says Joana Loureiro, quoted in the FEUP statement.
According to the researcher, who is also a teacher at FEUP, “these nanoparticles are modified with specific molecules that have a natural affinity with brain receptors.”
“In addition, they have molecules that induce cell permeability, making them cross the blood -bred barrier (Bhe) – A selective protective membrane that normally blocks the entry of most substances in the brain, ”explains the teacher on the day the college welcomes the 3rd Symposium on Alzheimer’s disease.
Still on the investigation that is being carried out in Lepab, according to FEUP, the team recently received an investment of 120,000 euros from XTX Ventures, which aims to “accelerate this technology and confirm its disruptive potential.”
At the same time, this project has also achieved receptivity to the Conception X Technological Entrepreneurship Program, a London company that bets on the talent of doctoral students in search of solutions to the various problems of our societies.
FEUP is the first institution outside the United Kingdom territory to integrate the Conception X Technological Entrepreneurship Program.
