Synthesis and evaluation of a collagen-type II-targeting peptide-drug conjugate for the treatment of Rheumatoid ArthritisÂ
Synthesis and evaluation of a collagen-type II-targeting peptide-drug conjugate for the treatment of Rheumatoid ArthritisÂ
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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) presents a significant medical challenge due to its complex etiology and lack of a definitive cure. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, but accessibility and affordability remain critical considerations. Current therapies include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and DMARDs, yet limitations such as rapid clearance and systemic toxicity persist. In response, research is exploring innovative drug delivery methods, notably peptide-based nanotherapeutics, offering enhanced stability and targeted drug release.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) presents a significant medical challenge due to its complex etiology and lack of a definitive cure. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, but accessibility and affordability remain critical considerations. Current therapies include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and DMARDs, yet limitations such as rapid clearance and systemic toxicity persist. In response, research is exploring innovative drug delivery methods, notably peptide-based nanotherapeutics, offering enhanced stability and targeted drug release.
Peptide-based nanotherapeutics hold promise due to their ability to self-assemble into various nanostructures, streamlining drug delivery processes and improving efficacy. Building on this, my hypothesis proposes that utilizing common glucocorticoids in prodrug form as peptide-drug conjugates, with a collagen type 2 targeting peptide linked to the drug via a hydrazone bond, will enhance therapeutic efficacy and targeted delivery in RA. This strategy leverages the peptide's targeting capabilities and pH-responsive release mechanism to improve precision, expand therapeutic options, and reduce systemic toxicity, even with systemic administration. This hypothesis underscores the potential of innovative drug delivery approaches to address the complexities of RA treatment and improve patient outcomes.
Peptide-based nanotherapeutics hold promise due to their ability to self-assemble into various nanostructures, streamlining drug delivery processes and improving efficacy. Building on this, my hypothesis proposes that utilizing common glucocorticoids in prodrug form as peptide-drug conjugates, with a collagen type 2 targeting peptide linked to the drug via a hydrazone bond, will enhance therapeutic efficacy and targeted delivery in RA. This strategy leverages the peptide's targeting capabilities and pH-responsive release mechanism to improve precision, expand therapeutic options, and reduce systemic toxicity, even with systemic administration. This hypothesis underscores the potential of innovative drug delivery approaches to address the complexities of RA treatment and improve patient outcomes.
Aim and Objective
Aim and Objective
The proposed study aims in the synthesis of a peptide-drug conjugate that specifically targets collagen type II, allowing for precise delivery of the therapeutic payload to the affected joints. Objectives are as follows:
Synthesize a peptide-drug conjugate targeting collagen type II for precise drug delivery to RA joints.
Develop the conjugate for targeted drug delivery, characterizing its self-assembling nature and pH-responsive release mechanism.
Evaluate its anti-inflammatory potential in vitro and in vivo.
Research Internship
Research Internship
Rice University, Houston, Texas
Rice University, Houston, Texas
I was selected for a four-month internship (October 2023 to January 2024) through the M Rice Engineering Scholars Program fellowship, which provided an opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Kevin McHugh from Rice University. This collaboration proved pivotal in refining the project objectives and enhancing its novelty.
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