Enzyme-mediated drug delivery

Biological barriers, such as mucus and epithelia, pose significant challenges to drug delivery, especially limiting the absorption of complex therapeutics like peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids. Our research explores enzyme-based strategies to transiently and specifically modulate these barriers, enhancing drug transport while maintaining tissue integrity. Inspired by nature, we leverage mucin- and lipid-degrading enzymes that evolved to navigate biological environments.
By harnessing these enzymes, we aim to develop a variety of next-generation permeation enhancers, from improving the oral bioavailability of peptide therapeutics to enabling the efficient penetration of inhaled drugs through pulmonary mucus.
We have established a dedicated group to combine protein engineering and pharmaceutical formulation to develop enzyme-based formulations that are safe, effective, and potentially suited for further translation into clinical applications.