Research Information
Research Interests
Our focus is on translational nanomedicine, which encompasses the synthesis of biomaterials, formulation design and development, and evaluation of different biocompatible nanoparticle-based platform technologies for targeted drug/gene delivery and imaging agents.
Our basic research involves how best to design unique nanostructures for efficient, targeted drug/gene delivery systems. We strive to understand the biophysics and biomechanics of the interactions between nanoparticles and cell membrane lipids and the role of this critical interaction in cellular uptake and intracellular trafficking of nanoparticles, as well as their biodistribution in vivo.
Dr. Labhasetwar leads the Cancer NanoMedicine program, a joint undertaking of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Institute.
Research Projects
In our current research projects, we aim to:
- Understand the role of epigenetic changes in tumor drug resistance and metastasis and create nanotherapeutics to treat both primary and metastatic tumors.
- Explore effective therapies for stroke, particularly methods of preventing reperfusion injury and facilitating neurological repair mechanisms.
- Develop novel treatments for blast-associated traumatic brain injury and regenerative therapies for spinal cord injury.
- Develop a non-stent approach to inhibit arterial restenosis following balloon angioplasty.