Glycan-coated Protein(oid) Nanocarriers for the Delivery and Controlled Release of Anticancer Agents

Cancer is a leading cause of death in the EU and worldwide. Chemotherapy has high risks and severe side effects due to the poor bioavailability of anticancer drugs. The inefficiency of current formulation vehicles necessitates better carrier systems.

Proteins, as non-toxic, biodegradable natural polymers capable of self-assembly, seem especially promising as nanocarriers to encapsulate anticancer agents. Plasma-derived protein excipients are expensive and increase the risk of infection.

The use of plant proteins, however, is limited by their immunogenicity.The main ambition of PRONACORE is to develop new, safe and sustainable, glycan-coated protein(oid) nanocarriers with reduced immunogenicity for the oral, subcutaneous, and intravenous delivery of poorly soluble anticancer agents.

By a top-down approach, core-shell type corn protein hydrolysate-pectin nanocarriers will be developed, demonstrating also a high-value route for the valorisation of sugar beet pectin.

In parallel, we apply a bottom-up approach to design and synthesize glycosylated proteinoid nanocarriers, tailored to the cargo compound by the careful selection of building blocks assisted by molecular dynamics tools. IP protection will be sought for the methods invented. The feasibility of the developed nanocarriers for parenteral delivery will be determined.

Our study on self-assembly and the factors determining the immunogenicity of protein(oid) nanocarriers will be made widely available to the scientific community, end-users, and the public.The concept builds on Researchers previous experience, incorporates new elements, and creates the opportunity to initiate further research and innovation.

He intends to remain active in this field beyond the scope of the MSCA fellowship to set up his own research group at the host, securing funding from national and EU grants and building a consortium for the development of sustainable soft materials for food, cosmetics, pharma-, and nutraceutical applications.