Robert Kirian
Bacterial Extracellular Vesicles as a Novel Vaginal Delivery Platform
Abstract
Vaginal drug delivery targets the female reproductive tract for localized and effective treatment. For maximum efficacy, formulations must be designed to cross the cervicovaginal mucus barrier. Our preliminary data suggests bacterial extracellular vesicles (bEVs) derived from Lactobacillus spp. are an ideal candidate for mucosal drug delivery attributed to their ability to cross mucus barriers. bEVs are lipid nanoparticles derived from all bacteria that mediate microbe – host communication. Here, we propose to engineer bEVs derived from L. crispatus into a novel vaginal drug delivery system. In Aim 1, we will quantify the loading efficiencies and drug release profiles of L. crispatus derived bEVs. In Aim 2, we will measure bEV uptake in vitro and bEV mobility in cervicovaginal mucus ex vivo. This proposed work will be the first to load L. crispatus derived bEVs with small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of gynecologic and obstetric conditions to improve women’s health outcomes.
I am incredibly thankful to the PhRMA Foundation for this opportunity. This fellowship will support my PhD research investigating bacterial extracellular vesicles as a novel vaginal drug delivery platform to tackle unmet needs in women’s health.
