Research Projects

The research aims to design, formulate, and evaluate nano-scaffolds for transdermal drug delivery of JAK inhibitors. The developed nano-formulation will be characterized and evaluated using analytical techniques, followed by in-vitro, in-vivo, and ex-vivo studies. Nano-formulations of drugs have overcome the problems faced by conventional dosage forms, enhancing bioavailability and targeting specific actions. The nano-fibrous scaffolds, fabricated using electro-spinning technique, possess unique properties such as higher loading efficiency, controlled release behavior, high mechanical strength, and stability. The polymeric nano-scaffold loaded with therapeutic agent can control or release the drug transdermally, minimizing dose dumping issues. Transdermal drug delivery systems use the skin to obtain systemic or local effects. The nano-scaffolds produced will be incorporated as a transdermal delivery system, overcoming the problems faced by systemic administration. The selected JAK inhibitors for the treatment of articular cartilage damage are Ruxolitinib, Tofacitinib, Baricitinib, Peficitinib, and Delgocitinib. The economic advantage of using JAK inhibitors through transdermal delivery is due to lower production costs compared to monoclonal antibodies. Systemic oral administration of JAK inhibitors has been reported to lead to adverse effects, such as herpes zoster infections and urinary tract infections. Therefore, the administration of JAK inhibitors through transdermal delivery could enhance the treatment of articular cartilage damage, potentially overcoming expensive surgical treatment.