We explore the synthesis of nanoparticles and nanoaggregates in microfluidic systems. The effect of flow patterns can influence the physico-chemical properties of nanomaterials, reflecting different in vivo or in vitro behavior. The synthesis of self-assembled nanomaterials, such as lipid and polymer-based nanoparticles, can be explored in microfluidic devices, providing a better understanding of the mechanisms that govern nanoparticles formation. We are interested in developing nanoparticles capable of delivering bioactive molecules and genetic material, both plasmid DNA and silencing RNA, for gene delivery applications towards specific cells. Biomimetic nanoparticles and nanoaggregates have been an exciting  research field.

Microfluidics can also be used to create complex and dynamic culture systems known as microphysiological systems, which feature characteristics such as three-dimensional cell organization, flow, extracellular matrix, and complex geometries, operating in perfusion, mimicking in vivo organisms. When combined, these characteristics can more effectively mimic the conditions in which cells exist within organisms. However, efforts are still required to design microdevices that operate in a simple way for daily use in research laboratories. The future of microfluidics associated with biotechnology probably lies in the possibility to provide low cost and efficient solutions for complex problems, including personalized medicine, drug approval, and synthetic biology. The Blood Brain Barrier microfluidic system is one of our goals!

Among the technological applications of microfluidics in the biomedical field, the production of hydrogel-based microparticles is also noteworthy. Microgels can be used individually or in combination, forming granular macrostructures known as microporous annealed particle scaffolds (MAP) for the delivery of drugs and genetic materials, which may or may not be nanoencapsulated in nanostructures. These systems have a wide range of applications, including cancer, neural diseases, and tissue engineering. In this context, we use droplet microfluidics to produce uniform microgels, allowing the incorporation of chemotherapeutic agents, genes, and growth factors into the microgels.