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The McEnnis Lab investigates the interaction of polymer drug delivery vehicles with the biological environment, including cells, blood, proteins and physiological temperature, using physical chemistry techniques in novel ways to design successful particles for targeted drug delivery systems. Drug delivery vehicles are an ideal treatment for many diseases. In practice, however, their design is challenging, and few are currently used clinically. The interaction of the biological environment with drug delivery vehicles is not well understood, and by addressing this gap, better and more successful models can be designed.
In summary, the McEnnis Lab applies novel techniques to analyze nanoparticle aggregation and protein corona formation in blood, particle glass transition temperature in biological conditions, and the cellular uptake of nanoparticles.
Projects
Projects
Glass transition temperature of PLGA nanoparticles
Glass transition temperature of PLGA nanoparticles
This research focuses on understanding the glass transition temperature (Tg) of poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles and its implications for drug delivery systems. PLGA nanoparticles are widely used for controlled drug release due to their biodegradability and tunable degradation properties. A major challenge in these systems is the initial burst release of drugs, which can lead to toxicity and reduced efficacy. This work explores how the Tg of PLGA affects drug release behavior, particularly in the presence of surfactants, plasticizers, and the biological environment. By investigating the role of Tg in particle stability, drug encapsulation, and release kinetics, this research aims to improve the predictability and control of drug delivery using PLGA-based systems.
Platinum nanoparticles in the treatment of triple negative breast cancer
Platinum nanoparticles in the treatment of triple negative breast cancer
This current project is attempting to utilize platinum nanoparticles as a non-toxic chemotherapeutic alternative to treating aggressive breast cancer. Current platinum-based chemotherapies are effective but highly toxic, and early cell studies show that platinum nanoparticles are effective against triple negative breast cancer but are simultaneously nontoxic to healthy cells. We are currently identifying the mechanism of action of these particles to better understand why they have non-toxic effect on fibroblasts. At the same time, we are conducting animal studies to see how well the nanoparticles work in an animal model.
This work is supported by the NJ Health Foundation and Metavivor Foundation
Protein corona formation on
Protein corona formation on
nanoparticles in blood plasma
nanoparticles in blood plasma
The aim of this research project is to examine how polymer nanoparticles interact with goat and bovine (cow) blood plasma, as well as Alsever’s solution and sodium citrate anticoagulants, in various combinations, and to assess the effects of protein corona formation in these different environments. The protein corona is a layer of protein that surrounds the particle when it is introduced to a biological environment, in this case the blood plasma. The goal is to explore how this information can be applied to targeted drug therapies using nanoparticles for use in the human body.
CIMSEPP Projects
CIMSEPP Projects
Our lab also works with the Center for Integrated Material Science and Engineering for Pharmaceutical Products (CIMSEPP), an NSF Industry-University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC). CIMSEPP projects involve crystal and particle engineering; model-predictive understanding of materials, processes and product performance; enhanced dissolution, stability, and processability of poorly soluble drugs.
More information here: https://www.cimsepp.org/
Image Credit: https://www.cimsepp.org/
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