Iranian Scientists Present New Method for Drug Delivery to Lungs

“In this research inhaled drug delivery was carried out to the lung by using a 3D printed model during which iron oxide nanoparticles are biosynthesized by using the microalgae Donalella salina and the amino acid aspartic acid to reduce its toxic effects and exert antibacterial and anticancer impacts due to the presence of some biologically active substances,” said Nahideh Jafari, a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Tabriz.

“In this method, the drug and nanoparticle is guided under a magnetic field precisely to the damaged area. The drug delivery conditions are ultimately optimized to provide the best effectiveness in treating the disease,” she added.

"The achievements of this research can be used in the treatment of all diseases that affect the respiratory system. In addition, by confirming the positive results at this stage, this type of drug delivery can be implemented by using biosynthesized nanoparticles and the optimal drug delivery conditions can be obtained in tests on animals and ultimately in the clinical stage," Jafari said.

In an earlier development, a team of Iranian researchers had also succeeded in producing an herbal medicine based on nanoparticles special for cardiovascular diseases.

The herbal medicine has been produced for the first time in the country by technological units at the Neishabur branch of the Islamic Azad University.

“As a fully herbal product based on nanoparticles, the medicine was produced after extensive research at the chemistry and biochemistry center of the university,” said Alireza Motavallizadeh, the director of the incubator for technological units of the Islamic Azad University, Neishabur branch.

“The medicine can be used in the treatment of arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases,” he added.

So far, a drug prototype has been produced and the procedure for receiving a license for production is underway.

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