David Loynd, CEO of EnduRx Pharmaceuticals discussed his latest efforts on delivering small molecule API by means of actively directed nanoparticles. There are approximately 80 approved nanomedicines around the world with many more in the pipeline. However most of these approved medicines do not achieve targeted delivery to specific body parts, and the commonly cited enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect is not highly effective.
Loynd emphasised the importance and demand for delivery small molecule APIs to specific tissues or tumours rather than relying on passive accumulation. Abraxane is an amorphous nanoparticle combined with paclitaxel that is one of the most common nanomedicines used to treat cancers but still has some shortcomings when it comes to targeting tumours.
Active delivery uses peptide-directed technology to target cell surface protein receptors in the tumour microenvironment. Loynd explained that this enables rapid and concentrated delivery of APIs to tumours while reducing exposure to healthy tissue.
Loynd introduced the concept of peptide ZIP code targeting. The method uses cell surface protein "ZIP codes" and peptide ligands to direct nanoparticles to specific tissues, improving drug concentration at the tumour site and reducing off-target effects.
Several technical and operational challenges remain like identifying target proteins and ligands, alongside this, optimising nanoparticle design and scaling manufacturing still presents obstacles for Loynd and his team. Despite the challenges EnduRx is collaborating with the University of Arizona to access technical resources cost-effectively, with the goal of attracting pharma partners and investors. The interest in oncology drug delivery is not going anywhere any time soon and the market is continuing to grow, giving Loynd hope for the future.
