Understanding nanotechnology-enabled technologies for life sciences applications through real-life examples
The course aims to enhance the understanding of fundamental nanotechnology principles realized in the development of real-life products used in life-sciences applications. The course is particularly suitable for professionals active in the healthcare system.
PERIOD and Schedule
October 19 to November 11, 2021, Tuesday and Thursday at 16.30-17.30.
Time commitment: approx. 8 hours
LOCATION
100% online. Zoom (link to be provided to applicant separately)
Language of instruction
English
Proof of studies
Certificate upon completion. Criteria for passing course: attendance of most lectures and active participation in Q&A session
EXTENT
In a series of short lectures, the course will unravel the mysteries behind the most advanced contemporary nanotechnology-enabled clinical treatments. The core of the course includes real-life examples of registered products used for life science applications, covering the fundamental science behind their respective invention, competitor technologies, synthesis and manufacturing principles, key features and benefits as well as clinical need.
Examples of ground-breaking real-life therapies based on nanotechnology:
|
Drug |
System |
Indication |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
AbraxaneTM |
paclitaxel-albumin based nanoparticles |
lung, breast, pancreatic cancers |
|
2 |
OnpattroTM |
patisiran siRNA-based liposome |
transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis |
|
3 |
OptisonTM |
perflutren-filled albumin nanoshells |
ultrasound contrast agent |
|
4 |
ZolgensmaTM |
AAV9 viral vector gene therapy |
muscular atrophy |
|
5 |
EmendTM |
aprepitant nanosuspension |
antiemetic (cancer) |
|
6 |
NanOssTM |
hydroxyapatite nanoparticles |
bone substitute |
|
7 |
NanothermTM |
iron oxide nanoparticles |
glioblastoma (brain cancer) |
|
8 |
VisudyneTM |
verteporfin liposomes |
macular degeneration |
BACKGROUND
Life sciences undergo such a dramatic and rapid transition that it is difficult to keep pace with developments even for professionals working in the healthcare system. The number of nanotechnology-enabled products is steadily increasing, and these ground-breaking treatments radically change the way the diseases are treated. Nanotechnology-based products are particularly useful for treatment of, e.g., cancer. Why is it so? How do they really work; how were they developed and/or manufactured; and what is the mechanism of their action? Many professionals, while aware of benefits of nanotechnology, have little to no insight into materials science and fundamental physical principles governing the behavior of materials on nanoscale. Through better understanding of the science behind the product you will be better prepared to explain to others and feel up-to-date with the newest trends in the industry.
Learning outcomes:
On completion of the course, the student should be able to:
- discuss and analyse the benefits of the nanotechnology-based systems compared to traditional treatments,
- describe the most common processes realized for the synthesis of particular nanomaterials,
- explain fundamental principles that allow implementation of the nanotechnology-based treatments in a clinical setting,
- provide examples of industrial applications for specific pharmacological indications.
TARGET GROUP
Professionals working in healthcare system or biopharmaceutical industry; professionals with background in medicine, pharmaceutics, chemical engineering, or biology
LEVEL
Advanced (A1N)
Contact
Prof. Albert Mihranyan, Nanotechnology and Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Email: albert.mihranyan@angstrom.uu.se
Tel.: 018-471 7940
Registration
Deadline for registration: October 14, 2021