| Description | Molecular Engineering and Sciences Seminar Series
Nanomedicine for Preterm Birth
Abstract: Preterm birth (PTB) is a significant global problem, but the etiology is poorly understood, and thus, few therapeutic options exist. Here, I describe the application of nanomedicine to various problems in PTB, from developing formulations for more effective drug delivery to probing novel mechanisms for prevention. I further discuss adaptation of mouse models of PTB for utility in comparing relative effectiveness of therapeutics. I focus on the vaginal route of drug administration, which can utilize the uterine first-pass effect to target the upper reproductive tract. I give one specific example of a mucoinert vaginal progesterone formulation that provided increased efficacy in prevention of PTB with decreased local toxicity. Formulations designed to achieve increased vaginal absorption with improved biocompatibility could be more effective for PTB prevention.
This weekly seminar brings together students, faculty and invited guests from various disciplines across campus to explore current trends in molecular engineering and nanotechnology. It is a forum for active interdisciplinary discussions. These talks are open to the public and attract a diverse audience of students and faculty. |
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