ARI develops polymeric nanoparticle drug delivery method for fungal infections

New Delhi: A drug delivery method developed by scientists from the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) may offer a breakthrough in treating fungal infections, particularly for patients with conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, HIV, cancer, or those who have been on long-term corticosteroid therapy. The new approach, utilizing polymeric nanoparticles, promises more controlled and effective drug release.

Traditional azole antifungal drugs work by attacking the fungal membrane and neutralizing the fungi. However, growing resistance to these medications has raised concerns about their efficacy. The need for improved drug delivery methods to enhance the effectiveness of antifungal treatments has become increasingly evident.

In response, the ARI team, led by Scientist Dr. Vandana Ghormade and PhD student Kamal Mayattu, has developed a new formulation using Nikkomycin, a chitin synthesis fungicide produced by the Streptomyces bacterium. Chitin, which is a major component of fungal cell walls but is absent in humans, makes it a strategic target for this innovative treatment.

Their study, published in Zeitschrift für Naturforschung C, highlights that the Nikkomycin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles effectively disrupt the growth of Aspergillus species, including Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus fumigatus, which are responsible for aspergillosis. This new nanoformulation showed no cytotoxic or hemolytic effects, indicating a safer profile compared to traditional treatments.

This innovative method could be particularly beneficial in the development of inhalation-based nanoformulations for pulmonary aspergillosis, providing a potential new avenue for treatment in patients with compromised lungs.

The research team at ARI is optimistic about further expanding these antifungal nanoformulations and is exploring possibilities for commercialization through public-private partnerships.