Biodegradable passionfruit-like hybrid nanoarchitectures for gene therapy
Innovative biodegradable nanoarchitectures designed to enhance gene therapy by improving target specificity and reducing immune responses. These nanomaterials offer safer and more effective alternatives to viral vectors in various therapies.
Overview
Passionfruit-like hybrid nanoarchitectures (NAs) present a novel approach in the realm of gene therapy. These biodegradable nanomaterials are designed to address the limitations of current methods by enhancing cell target specificity, thus reducing off-target effects and increasing therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, their biocompatible composition minimizes immune activation, offering a safer therapeutic alternative to viral vectors.
Technical specifications
Passionfruit-like NAs are composed of polymeric aggregates encapsulated within a biodegradable silica capsule, approximately 150 nm in size. This structure enables efficient intracellular uptake and ideal degradation kinetics. Key features include:
- Surface Decoration: Easy ligand decoration allows precise cargo delivery.
- Biocompatibility: Reduces non-specific immune responses, enhancing stability and safety.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for targeted drug delivery, metastasis modulation, and as radiosensitizers.
Technology readiness level
Current validation places the technology at TRL 3, with variations between 2 to 6 depending on the application. Ongoing research aims to elevate the TRL to 5-6 for targeted gene delivery, seeking industrial partnerships to achieve a functional platform within two years.
About University of Genoa
The University of Genoa is a comprehensive public research university anchored in Liguria, Italy, with broad academic breadth and an applied orientation. Co-located national research institutes and a city research and technology park connect faculty expertise to corporate partners, and proximity to a major port and maritime/logistics cluster facilitates pilots and testbeds. Integration with leading regional hospitals supports clinical studies and translational work, while joint labs, contract research, executive education, and tailored internships provide flexible engagement models. Research is sustained by competitive European programs and national ministries, complemented by regional funds and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, startup formation, and collaboration agreements.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Industry applications
delivered to your inbox.