The main objective of ‘Drug Delivery’ research is to safely and efficiently target drugs or bioactive compounds to their site of action through the process of pharmaceutical formulation, utilisation of new technologies and systems.
Here in AUT, we are not only interested in optimising drug delivery to humans but also to animals and aquamarine species.
Most drugs and new bio-active molecules or agents such as probiotics, vaccines and pesticides are either insoluble or unstable which minimise their effectiveness.
It is often necessary to incorporate these agents into biocompatible formulations that can protect them from degradation as well as making the delivery approach target specific, localised and more efficient. Novel drug delivery approaches usually result in enhanced therapeutic efficiency as well as reduced side effects and cost.
Currently, we work on a number of 3D printed, nano and microcapsule based drug delivery systems for human and veterinary applications.
The choice of drug delivery system depends on many factors including: physicochemical properties of the drug or bio-actives, drug delivery environment, drug release timeline, scale-up costs and applications.
Collaboration Opportunities
External Research
Out-sourced R&D can fill knowledge gaps within the organisation. Collaborative research projects provide access to DRRG’s research expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to carry out research specified by the organisation. This is a cost-effective pathway for expanding in-house capability where intellectual property can be accessed as part of a project (subject to agreed agreements). Out-sourced R&D also adds potential for longer-term strategic relationship between the client and DDRG. Through rigorous candidate screening including academic achievements and research expertise and interest, DDRG has high achieving graduates coming from all over the world.
- Pharmaceutical analysis
- Physicochemical characterisation of pharmaceuticals
- Food and pharmaceutical formulation development
- Novel drug delivery systems for humans and veterinary applications
- Novel drug delivery and feed formulation for aquaculture industries
- 3D printed medicines
Commercialisation
Technologies developed by DDRG are available for further commercial development and licensing. Due to Dr Seyfoddin’s previous commercialisation experience and the continuous partnership with AUT University’s commercialisation office, AUT Enterprises Limited, DDRG’s technologies are market-driven and have protection scopes that are commercially attractive. For further discussion on accessing DDRG’s technologies contact Wilson Huang at [email protected].
Education
Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science)
Biomedical science and biotechnology have revolutionised research over the past decade, stimulating growth in industries like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, veterinary science and medical research. Biomedical science is the most rapidly developing area in biological sciences, and demand for biomedical graduates is expected to grow.
If you’re interested in emerging areas of medical and health sciences and how they can improve human and animal health, the Biomedical Science major could be right for you. You gain an understanding of fundamental physiology and biomedical research, working with the latest laboratory techniques and equipment. AUT has specialist biomedical labs with analytical equipment not available at any other New Zealand university.
Dr Seyfoddin leads the following Biomedical courses and teaches in to the pharmacology course:
Biol741- Natural compounds
Explains the importance of natural compounds and their applications in biomedical science and industry.
Biol742 – Biomedical science
Explores advanced methods used for biomedical research and the protocol to conduct biomedical research.
Biol743 – Biomedical technology
Explores the technologies used in biomedical research, including nano-technology, 3D printing and engineering of medical devices.
Phmy701- Pharmacology for professional practice
Explores the pharmacology of commonly used drugs and the application of this to various clinical situations. Considers the responsibilities of the health professional in relation to drug therapy and with regard to political, social, and cultural considerations, pharmacology science, legislation, and ethical practice
Consultancy
Pharma consultancy
DDRG is committed to engagement with the industry and has extended its services beyond research projects. DDRG has provided pharma consultancy and expert opinion for a number of pharmaceutical, veterinary, aquaculture and polymer engineering companies.
Below are the list of services that DDRG can provide:
- Pharmaceutical dosage form design for human and veterinary applications
- Pharmaceutical physicochemical characterisation and analysis (HPLC, LCMS, UV, FTIR, Mass spectroscopy, NMR, SEM, DSC, size distribution etc)
- Ex vivo toxicity testing for ocular formulations
- Corneal penetration of medicaments
- Drug release and USP dissolution testing
Industry representatives can initiate contact by emailing Dr Seyfoddin at [email protected]
Contact
Dr Ali Seyfoddin
Telephone:
+64 (09) 921 9999 ext 6033
Email:
Physical/Delivery Address:
Drug Delivery Research Group
School of Science
Auckland University of Technology
Room WS510, Level Five, WS Building
City Campus
34 St Paul Street
Auckland
Postal Address:
School of Science
AUT
Private Bag 92006
Auckland 1142