The nature of drugs precipitated in a confined space: A nano size X-ray beam study

Purpose and goal:

Disruptive Pharma, a pharmaceutical company specializing in mesoporous magnesium carbonate (MMC) for advanced drug delivery, partners with RISE in a groundbreaking project. The aim of this project is to investigates APIs´ physical state within MMC pores using nano-focused X-ray beams available at synchrotron facilities. These investigations will reveal the mechanisms driving drug precipitation, unveiling crucial insights into stability, solubility, and release behavior which could help refining drug delivery systems, and optimizing therapeutic efficacy.

Expected results and effects:

This project could significantly impact pharmaceutical research. It aims to refine drug delivery systems, enhance bioavailability, and optimize therapeutic efficacy. The potential for innovative drug formulations and solutions for poorly water-soluble drugs could lead to profound changes in the pharmaceutical industry and improved patient outcomes.

The synergy between synchrotron technology and pharmaceutical science may open new ways for innovative drug formulations, ensuring precise decoding of interactions for more effective medications. Approach and implementation:

Disruptive Pharma and RISE will prepare API-loaded samples exhibiting amorphous, crystalline, and mixed states. These samples will be characterized using standard techniques, providing baseline data for sample selection. A 2D scanning X-ray diffraction experiment will be conducted at NanoMAX to obtain high-resolution information on the API’s physical state.

In addition, 2D ptychography scans will produce projected electron density images, enhancing our understanding of particle drug distribution. This project may pave the way for future advanced 3D experiments.