Label-free spectromicroscopy: Probing drugs and drug nanocarriers in cells, skin, and mucous membranes (B02)

• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: from 2013 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 234930468

This project builds on methodological developments established during the first funding period, where the methods on label-free detection are further developed for increasing their sensitivity and specificity. The stimulated Raman microscope is further improved. We will increase our efforts in infrared-based spectromicroscopy by using an approach that relies on thermal expansion of the absorbing species. Capabilities in X-ray microscopy will be extended. These methods are applied for studying the penetration of drugs (primarily: tracrolimus, etanercept, and tofacitinib) and polymeric nanocarriers penetrating skin, skin models and oral mucosa.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1112: Nanocarriers: Architecture, Transport and Topical Application of Drugs for Therapeutic Use
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Eckart Rühl