Drug Discovery and Drug delivery system

Targeted drug delivery aims to direct therapeutics specifically to diseased cells, reducing systemic toxicity. Coupled with precision medicine, delivery is tailored to individual genetic, proteomic, and metabolic profiles. Technologies like antibody-drug conjugates and ligand-receptor targeting are key in oncology, neurology, and rare diseases.

Nanocarriers such as liposomes, dendrimers, and polymeric nanoparticles enhance drug solubility, stability, and controlled release. These systems enable site-specific delivery and can cross biological barriers, like the blood-brain barrier. Nanomedicine offers promise in cancer therapy, gene delivery, and antimicrobial treatments.

mRNA-based therapies and vaccines demand efficient delivery systems to ensure stability and cellular uptake. Lipid nanoparticles and exosomes are leading platforms. This track explores advancements in delivering siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, and CRISPR-Cas9 components for gene therapy and rare disease treatment.

Drug repurposing identifies new uses for existing drugs, reducing R&D time. Combined with computational tools such as molecular docking, AI, and systems biology, researchers can uncover hidden mechanisms and therapeutic applications, especially in infectious diseases and oncology.

Biologics such as monoclonal antibodies, peptides, and vaccines require sophisticated development and delivery. This track discusses innovations in formulation, stabilization, and biosimilar design to ensure efficacy, safety, and regulatory compliance, focusing on immune-related and chronic conditions.

CRISPR-Cas systems have opened new frontiers in gene editing for therapeutic applications. Research focuses on developing delivery vectors that ensure precision, safety, and minimal off-target effects. Delivery via viral and non-viral systems is a key challenge under exploration.

Advanced in vitro models like organ-on-a-chip and 3D-bioprinted tissues mimic human physiology more accurately than traditional cell cultures or animal models. These tools enhance drug screening, reduce preclinical failures, and personalize testing, accelerating translational research.

Controlled-release technologies improve patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. Systems like hydrogels, osmotic pumps, and microspheres allow predictable and prolonged drug release. Research emphasizes biodegradable polymers and stimuli-responsive systems triggered by pH, temperature, or enzymes.

Delivering drugs to the brain is a significant challenge due to the restrictive blood-brain barrier (BBB). Strategies like receptor-mediated transport, intranasal delivery, and focused ultrasound are under active research to treat CNS disorders like Alzheimer’s and glioblastoma.

Smart polymers respond to environmental stimuli—such as pH, light, or temperature—to release drugs at target sites. These carriers improve therapeutic precision and reduce dosing frequency. Applications include cancer therapy, wound healing, and ocular drug delivery.

Modern immunotherapies target specific immune pathways to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. This track explores delivery systems for vaccines, including mRNA platforms, oral/mucosal delivery, and adjuvant optimization to enhance immune response and safety.

Green chemistry emphasizes environmentally friendly drug synthesis methods that minimize waste and avoid hazardous reagents. Research focuses on biocatalysis, solvent-free processes, and energy-efficient technologies for sustainable pharmaceutical development.

Understanding drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) is critical. This track highlights in silico and in vitro models to predict pharmacokinetics and optimize dosing regimens, reducing late-stage failures in clinical trials.

Bridging discovery and clinical application requires regulatory insight. This track covers adaptive clinical trial designs, real-world data use, eCTD submissions, and regulatory harmonization to facilitate faster and safer drug approvals globally.

Long-acting formulations improve adherence for chronic conditions like schizophrenia and HIV. Research includes injectable depots, in-situ forming gels, and implantable devices offering weeks or months of therapeutic effect with a single administration.

Non-invasive delivery methods enhance convenience and bioavailability. This track focuses on inhalable formulations for respiratory and systemic conditions, and transdermal patches using microneedles or iontophoresis for pain, hormone, and vaccine delivery.

Exosomes, natural extracellular vesicles, are emerging as biocompatible drug carriers. Their ability to cross biological barriers and deliver RNA, proteins, or small molecules positions them as promising tools for cancer, neurodegenerative, and inflammatory diseases.

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global threat. Research explores novel drug discovery approaches including phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, and targeted delivery systems to overcome resistance mechanisms and improve treatment outcomes.

Integrating digital technology into drug delivery (e.g., smart pills, wearable injectors, and mobile-connected devices) allows real-time monitoring and adherence tracking. This track explores synergy between digital health and pharmacotherapy for chronic disease management.