Members

Nível: Técnica de laboratório

Descrição das Atividades: Desenvolve atividades laboratoriais, zelando pela guarda, conservação, manutenção e limpeza dos equipamentos, instrumentos e materiais utilizados e realiza pedidos de compras.

Informações Adicionais: Graduação em Farmácia Bioquímica pela FCFRP-USP e mestrado e doutorado em Ciências também pela mesma instituição.

Técnico óptico eletrônico

Suporte Técnico

Nível: Técnica para Assuntos Administrativos

Descrição Atividades: Desenvolve atividades administrativas e financeiras, auxilia docente e alunos, responsável pela prestação de contas dos projetos.

Informações Adicionais: graduada e especialista em Engenharia de Produção, área de gestão de projetos acadêmicos. Idiomas: inglês e alemão.

Nanotechnology Applied to increase the activity of therapeutic agents for treatment of COVID-19

Establishment of protocols, syntheses, and characterization of a polymeric nanostructured system for the delivery of Remdesivir® (RDV). RDV is an antiviral approved for the treatment of COVID-19. The project also has an in vitro study of the cytotoxicity (IC50) of RDV and polymeric nanoparticles in different cell lines.

Development and characterization of cell membrane coated Carboplatin-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles, functionalized with APTES, for lung cancer therapy.

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) attracted the attention of researchers owing to their excellent properties including biocompatibility, high porosity, and optimal functionalization. These properties allow a greater drug loading capacity of different sizes for target and gene therapy. This research project uses these properties to produce a drug delivery as a target therapy in non-small cell lung cancer, using APTES-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with the drug Carboplatin (CNSM-CPt) and encapsulated in the cell membrane.

Development of nanoformulations of interest in animal use

The project aims to develop and characterize new nanoscale formulations for use in animals. Nano technology has been gaining a lot of space in the veterinary industry.

PLGA nanoparticles coated with lung tumor cell membrane for bevacizumab delivery in QuasiVivo® co-culture model of A549 and HUVEC cells.

We intend to develop a nonstructured system from the PLGA polymer and membrane of A549 tumor cells for specific delivery of the drug Bevacizumab. The idea is that this system will possess camouflage features to evade the immune system and surface characteristics for homotypic recognition.

Theranostic platforms for discrimination and selective elimination of super-resistant bacteria in agriculture

The use of theranostic nanoparticles proved to be promising to overcome the antimicrobial resistance problem, being an alternative therapy in agriculture. Among this class of antimicrobial agents, silver nanoparticles have a broad spectrum of activity, and their combination with endolysin has been demonstrated to improve the antibacterial activity of the complex. This project aims to develop a theranostic platform composed by the association of silver nanoparticles with endolysin PlyB221, enabling the emergence of a system with a high potential for diagnosis and antibacterial treatment.

Development of Copper-Based Nanodispersions for Veterinary Use

Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) exhibit enhanced biological properties due to the production of reactive oxygen species, making them effective against microorganisms. Their size and shape can be controlled, functionalized, and combined with insecticides, improving their antimicrobial efficacy. This project aims to develop CuNP nanoformulations for veterinary use, contributing to the control of ticks and harmful microorganisms.

Investigating toxicity of graphene oxide and molybdenum disulphide-based nanocomposites to microalgae

Studies show that nanocomposites formed by GO-MoS2 present better efficiency in performance for several applications. However, the increasing use of these nanomaterials is causing great concern to the scientific community regarding the indiscriminate use and improper disposal of these in the aquatic environment.

Development of Nanodispersions based on Copper and Antibiotics for Veterinary Use
Nanotechnology drives the application of metallic nanoparticles in veterinary medicine, with a focus on their biological properties. Copper nanoparticles are effective against parasites and bacterial pathogens, and can be combined with medications to enhance therapeutic efficacy and combat antibiotic resistance. This study aims to develop and characterize nanoformulations that combine copper nanoparticles with veterinary antibiotics.

Bioinspired and biomimetic nanostructured systems for nose-to-brain administration: a novel perspective for glioblastoma therapy

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) represents the main obstacle that limits adequate concentrations of different drugs designed for brain tumors therapy. The nose-to-brain delivery, which allows a direct connection to the CNS, has been proposed as an alternative. This study proposes the development of biomimetic and bioinspired nanostructured systems, containing temozolamide, the first-choice drug for glioblastoma treatment. Membrane-coated polymeric nanoparticles extracted from tumor cells will be rationally designed to provide an improved biological response, opening an unprecedented new therapeutic opportunity for GBM treatment.

Toxicological assessment of phytoplankton organisms exposed to nanomaterials.

This work aims to assess the degree of toxicity and potential risks of environmental impact of nanoparticles on microalgae. Thus, we intend to analyze the effects of exposure on the growth, mortality and physiology (oxidative stress, membrane peroxidation, cell viability, and enzymatic activity) of the Raphidocelis subcapitata and Chlorella sorokiniana algae.

Nanocarriers for the optimized targeted delivery for genetic therapies Applied to the pancreatic cancer.
This project aims to produce liposome nanoparticles with effective delivery characteristics for iRNA for gene silencing therapy by coating the plasma membranes of pancreatic tumor cells to improve targeting, minimizing their recognition by the phagocytic system.

Novel biomimetic nanosystems based on calcium orthophosphates covered by cellular membranes for bioimaging and controlled release of antineoplastics

In modern nanomedicine, theranostic nanocarriers are in the front-line search for innovative solutions to improve the efficiency of traditional therapeutic methods, such as chemotherapy. The present project aims to obtain novel theranostic biomimetic nanosystems based on fluorescent calcium orthophosphates (CaPs) covered with the main constituents of cancer cell membranes. The nanocarriers will be used to delivery gemtabicine and paclitaxel antineoplastics, which are two first line therapeutic agents often coadministered in clinics to treat distinct cancers, including pancreatic cancer.

Development of nanoformulations containing agrochemicals.

Agriculture is currently facing great challenges concerning sustainable production and the global distribution of food. The search for intelligent alternatives and more sustainable practices in the agricultural sector is crucial to face the population increase, depletion, and careless use of natural resources. Nanotechnology has great potential to revolutionize the agrifood sector. In this study, a proposal for the development of nanostructures systems for the controlled release of agrochemicals aims to provide an opportunity for the production of new products with potentially improved field properties and performance, which contribute to the promotion of more productive sustainable agriculture, reducing the impacts environmental and human health.

Noninvasive tumor diagnostics using proteolytic activity nanosensors

The currently available diagnostic technologies of tumours are limited to relatively large lesions despite all advances in imaging techniques and the discovery of new biomarkers. A promising approach is utilizing smart nanomaterials that sense proteolytic activity misregulation in the tumour microenvironment and release a reporter in response to aid in the management of early tumour detection.

Nanosystems for siRNA delivery in glioblastoma therapy.

RNA interference using siRNA is a promising technique for the therapy of various diseases, including cancer, as it allows the specific inactivation of target genes. The effectiveness of this approach depends on nanocarriers that protect and transport this molecule to the target cells. In patients with glioblastoma multiforme, interference in genes related to cell proliferation can reduce tumor growth and improve the patient's prognosis. Therefore, this technology has the potential to transform glioblastoma treatment, providing a more targeted and less toxic approach.

Bionanomaterials as a breakthrough tool for radiotherapy

Our main focus is to improve cancer treatment, especially radiotherapy. Since such treatment is not specific for tumor cells, we studied the use of high atomic number nanoparticles as radiosensitizers. These nanoparticles increase the absorption of radiation in cancer cells, allowing treatments with lower doses of radiation, leading to a decrease in side effects for the patient.

Immunomodulatory potential, in the context of glioblastoma, of exosomes encapsulated by biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles.

Exosomes (Exo) are small vesicles that mediate intercellular communication and are produced by the endocytic system of several cell types, including cells that make up the immune system and tumor cells. Exo tumors have been used as a source of tumor antigens to sensitize the immune system and exosomes derived from dendritic cells (DC) are potentially capable of making tumor cells more immunogenic. Considering the potential of nanostructured systems for the delivery of bioactive molecules capable of stimulating the immune response, this project aims to design and use biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles (NP) loaded with exosomes derived from tumor cells (NP Exo-GBM) or cell-derived dendritic (NP Exo-DC) as immunomodulation instruments in the context of GBM.

Biomimetic Nanostructured Systems as a therapeutic strategy for lung cancer.

The aim of the project is the development of PLGA nanoparticles (NP) coated with lung tumor cell membranes (A549) loaded with erlotinib for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), representing an innovative strategy, with great potential to improve biological response, opening a new unprecedented therapeutic opportunity for the treatment of lung cancer.

Biomimetic nanoparticles coated with cell membranes as an innovative strategy in lung cancer therapy

In this PhD project, we propose the development of PLGA nanoparticles containing cisplatin coated with hybrid membranes of T lymphocytes and lung tumor cells (A549). This strategy offers specificity to the lung cancer cells, contributing to lower toxicity in adjacent healthy cells. In this sense, the proposed innovation may represent a strategy of great interest and potential for oncological application.

Cell membrane-based nanocapsules containing novel chemotherapics for brain tumor therapy via nose-to-brain delivery.

Conventional glioblastoma (GBM) therapy has limited efficacy due to the blood-brain barrier presence, which limits the appropriate concentration of drugs in the brain. Due to its unique anatomical and physiological characteristics, nose-to-brain delivery has been proposed as an alternative in the drug administration destined for the CNS. This study intends to combine the antineoplastic properties of chromenes and melatonin, encapsulated in polymeric nanostructures, with the cell membrane coating technology, aiming for biological response improvement, providing valuable and innovative strategies for GBM treatment.

Membrane nanoparticles and exosomes derived from tumor cells for delivery of immunomodulatory agents

One of the main factors favoring the growth and expansion of neoplastic cells is their ability to modulate the tumor microenvironment and evade immune surveillance. Therefore, the present project was formulated to develop nanocarriers to transport immunomodulatory agents into tumor cells, and to modulate the main cells of the immune system.

Carrier Nanoparticles for Controlled Release of Assets of Interest in Agriculture

Traditional fertilizers, while crucial for plant growth, can have detrimental effects on soil quality, contribute to water and air pollution, and lead to pest resistance. Innovative approaches, such as the use of microbial biological control agents (MBCAs), can act as elicitors, stimulating plant defense mechanisms. Nanotechnology offers further advancements by optimizing the delivery of defense-related compounds like Methyl Jasmonate (MeJA) and salicylic acid (SA) through zein nanoparticles coated with propylene glycol alginate (PGA), enabling controlled release. This project aims to develop these nanoparticles to enhance plant defenses and improve fruit quality, providing a sustainable alternative for agriculture.

Eletrochemical biosensor for multiple detection of tuberculosis biomarkers

The objective of this project is the development of an electrochemical immunosensor for the simultaneous detection of two tuberculosis biomarker proteins, Hsp65 and CFP10

Application of multifunctional nanocarriers in lung cancer

There are several barriers that inhibit the efficiency of nanomaterials as theranostic agents for medical applications. Natural cell membrane nanoparticle coating is one of the strategies for solving such problems, combined with photothermal therapy. This project aims the development of theranostic systems composed of gold nanorods (AuNRs) coated with cell membrane (CM) extracted from lung cancer cells together with doxorubicin (DOX).

Biomimetic carrier nanovesicles for targeted drug delivery in lung carcinoma cells

Use of biomimetic nanovesicles formed from tumor cell membrane for simultaneous targeted delivery of the drugs erlotinib and cisplatin in lung carcinoma cells. The research aims to use nanotechnology to improve biosecurity and enhance the antitumor activity of the treatment.

Nanostructured Biomimetic Systems based on Tumor Membranes for the Treatment of Neuroblastoma

Development of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with paclitaxel (PTX), coated with neuroblastoma (NB) tumor cell membranes (SH-SY5Y). This strategy promotes targeting and accumulation of the nanostructures in the tumor microenvironment, representing a rational and innovative approach for neuroblastoma therapy.

RGD Tripeptide Functionalized Polymeric Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery of 5-Fluorouracil in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

Today, colorectal cancer is the second most lethal and highly prevalent cancer worldwide. In its treatment, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a widely used chemotherapeutic drug; however, it comes with many side effects. An innovative approach is the use of a controlled release system, and this project aims to develop polymeric nanoparticles functionalized with the tripeptide RGD to encapsulate 5-FU, achieving greater treatment efficiency for cancer and improved patient well-being.

Development of nanoformulations of interest in animal use.

The project aims to develop and characterize new nanoscale formulations for use in animals. Nano technology has been gaining a lot of space in the veterinary industry.

Cisplatin-loaded nanostructured systems for the treatment of lung cancer.

Cisplatin is a drug, approved in 1978, as the gold standard for the treatment of lung cancer; however, only 10% of the drug reaches the tumor tissue. Its lack of selectivity and the predisposition of tumor cells to become drug-resistant results in high toxicity. In this scientific initiation project, the main objective is to increase the effectiveness of nanoencapsulated cisplatin aiming at specific targeting and increasing its effectiveness in antitumor treatment.

“Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles containing doxorubicin and carboplatin for application in cancer treatment “

The project aims to synthesize and characterize HA NPs loaded with DOX and carboplatin for application in cancer treatment. The structural, morphological and photoluminescent properties of the obtained NPs will be studied in detail. The colloidal stability and surface potential of the NPs will be analyzed, and the loading efficiencies and release profiles of the drugs loaded in the NPs will be determined.

Application of paclitaxel nanoencapsulated with PLGA in lung cancer treatment.

The project proposes the development of the polymeric nanoparticles of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), a biocompatible and biodegradable copolymer, for paclitaxel delivery in lung cancer treatment, to modulate the action of this drug.

Biomimetic artificial cells based on engineered lymphocytes as an innovative strategy in cancer therapy.

The project aims to develop a nanostructured system capable of improving the action of the carboplatin drug through different methods of nanoparticle synthesis, with the objective of obtaining greater stability and encapsulation efficiency of the drug, which will be used in the treatment of lung cancer.

Engineered Lymphocyte-Based Artificial Biomimetic Cells As An Innovative Strategy In Cancer Therapy

The project aims to study the antitumor activity of biomimetic nanoparticles made with pieces of glioblastoma membranes and T lymphocytes, incorporated with temozolamide and bevacizumab, substances that are respectively associated with the antineoplastic and antiangiogenic effect in glioblastoma, a tumor of the central nervous system, characterized by grade IV malignancy and regions of intense angiogenesis.

Establishment and morphological characterization of spheroids derived from human hepatocarninoma cell line.

This Project aims to establish and characterize a protocol for 3D cell culture from human hepatocarcinoma cells. In this Project the cell growth model used will be the “scaffold-free”, wich is characterized by cell growth free off a substrate and the formation os spheroids from the hanging drop methodology in wich there is the formation of a drop subject to the action of gravity allowing the formation os spheroids.

Biomimetic nanoparticles coated with hybrid membrane of lung adenocarcinoma and lymphoblasts to application in therapy against lung cancer.

The main part of this project is to develop and characterization of biomimetic nanostructured systems intended for the treatment of lung cancer. For this, the systems will be coated with hybrid cell membranes (lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) and lymphoblasts) to allow a specific drug site for the lung tumor microenvironment. Thus, these systems should contribute to reducing toxicity, reducing the reduction, and increasing the measure.

Development of nanostructured Rapid Tests for differential detection of Tuberculosis and Pneumonia

This project aims at the development of a multiplex lateral flow biosensor capable of simultaneously detecting the pneumolysin biomarkers from Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, the pathogen causing pneumonia, and the Hsp65 protein from Mycobacterium Tuberculosis bacteria, the causative agent of Tuberculosis. The purpose is to provide a practical, sensitive, and specific alternative for the differential diagnosis of these diseases. For this purpose, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) will be used as colorimetric probes for each biomarker.