Microglial-targeted drug delivery system for neuroinflammation treatment
Introducing a novel bolaamphiphile material that forms vesicles capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier to deliver therapeutic agents to microglial cells, promoting anti-inflammatory activity and potentially slowing neurodegenerative disease progression.
Overview
Microglial-targeted drug delivery offers a promising solution to manage neuroinflammation, a critical factor in the progression of neurodegenerative disorders. Developed from a sustainable natural product, these novel bolaamphiphile vesicles are designed to cross the blood-brain barrier and deliver therapeutic agents directly to microglial cells. By switching the microglial phenotype to an anti-inflammatory state, this technology aims to slow or halt disease progression by controlling neuroinflammation.
Technical specifications
- Bolaamphiphile Material: Synthesized from sustainable natural sources, forming vesicles capable of encapsulating various payloads, including large molecules (>60kDa).
- Blood-Brain Barrier Penetration: Vesicles deliver payloads across the blood-brain barrier in under 30 minutes, specifically targeting microglial cells.
- Microglial Activation: Upon delivery, vesicles induce phenotype switching in microglial cells, promoting a pro-resolving, anti-inflammatory state.
- Validation Models: Demonstrated efficacy in murine models and human microglial cell lines, with ongoing validation in neuroinflammatory models.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 5, with successful laboratory-scale validation and ongoing efforts to demonstrate efficacy in relevant animal models.
About University of Lincoln
The University of Lincoln is a comprehensive public university with a modern, city-centre campus and an applied research culture. Industry engagement is built into its model through co-located facilities at a dedicated science and innovation park and long-term partnerships with global manufacturers, utilities, and regional SMEs. Specialized food manufacturing and packaging testbeds at its south Lincolnshire campus provide pilot-scale lines for process development, while links with regional NHS trusts and a medical school enable clinical research and evaluation. Research draws competitive support from UKRI councils, Innovate UK, and the National Institute for Health and Care Research, alongside partnerships with industry. A dedicated technology transfer and enterprise office supports IP management, licensing, and spinout formation.
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