Understanding the mechanistic uptake and exploring the translation of novel amino acid based ion pair complexes

Lead Research Organisation: Aston University
Department Name: Sch of Life and Health Sciences

Abstract

The Project aims to study the cellular mechanism of enhancement of permeability of model poorly permeable drugs in the presence of different concentration of oppositely charged amino acids. The project involves the application of various techniques including drug permeability assessment, physical characterisation such as solubility assessment, differential calorimetric analysis as well as microbial assays such as rate kill studies and drug uptake assays in microbes. The project will provide expertise in interdisciplinary sciences involving physical chemistry, microbiology and drug formulation.

Publications

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Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
BB/M017044/1 01/10/2015 30/09/2019
1655352 Studentship BB/M017044/1 01/10/2015 30/09/2019 Annsar Warraich
 
Description Acidic and basic amino acids are able to enhance the amount of model drug tetracycline which is able to dissolve in water.

Acidic amino acids have been identified as positive candidates as anti-biofilm agents for Staphylococcus Aureus biofilms. The amino acids are able to break down already formed biofilms whilst inhibiting the formation of new biofilms.

Basic amino acids are able to enhance the permeability of Digoxin through Caco-2 cell monolayers.

Amino acids play a role in preventing efflux of drugs from bacteria.
Exploitation Route The findings can be used to make formulations which aid in enhancing the solubility and permeability of the incorporated poorly soluble or poorly permeable drug, respectively.

The findings can be used by researchers to investigate the potential application of amino acids as anti-biofilm agents for use in humans.

In the prevention and treatment of infections in the healthcare sector.

In the food and drink sector for hygiene.

For maintaining aseptic conditions in pharmaceutical and medical sectors.
Sectors Agriculture, Food and Drink,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology,Other