PHRM 781 - Nano-Based Pharmaceuticals

Nanomaterials with biomedical applications have a size of 1-100 nm. Currently, several approved nano-based pharmaceuticals, including nanoliposomes, protein-drug conjugate nanoparticles, and metallic-based nanoformulations, are used for patients suffering from different disorders, such as cancer, fungal infections, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and kidney diseases. This is an interactive course for student pharmacists to learn about the different kinds of nanoscale size particles, such as lipids (liposomes and solid-lipid nanoparticles), polymers, dendrimers, micelles, carbon nanotubes, inorganic nanoparticles, and their applications as pharmaceuticals, diagnostic and preventive tools, and targeted therapy and drug-delivery systems in cancer, viral diseases, fungal and bacterial infections, and tissue engineering. The students will also be exposed to nanotechnology, which is still under development. Furthermore, the challenges in the clinical translation of nano-based pharmaceuticals and regulatory approvals will be discussed. The students will present a number of review or research articles and answer several discussion questions during each session. Pass/No Pass. (Offered as needed.) 1 credit