Shamimur Akanda, PhD
Development of a Robust IVIVC for Intra-articular Drug Delivery
Abstract
Intra-articular (IA) drug delivery is an efficient, targeted approach to treating joint diseases such as osteoarthritis (OA). The clearance of drugs from the joint depends on its interaction with the physical structures of tissues and also the characteristics of drugs and drug carriers. Currently there is no prediction model of drug clearance from joint that includes the physical structure of joint. I am proposing to develop a one of a kind in vitro-in vivo correlation model by developing a finite element model of the joint using mixture theory which will take into account the drug size and the physical structure of joint tissues. It will be used as an in vitro screening approach and rapid simulator to predict drug clearance from the joint in vivo. Such a model will allow us to develop better drug formulation strategies and improved drug delivery protocols, design efficient experimentation, optimize drug dosing, and thus reduce associated cost of animal testing to a great extent.
I am incredibly honored to receive the PhRMA Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship in Drug Delivery. This award will help me to develop a robust in vitro in vivo correlation model for intra-articular drug delivery and to advance the field of drug delivery.
