2024 Materials Science Lecture series
We are thrilled to invite you to a special seminar, Sugar-coated Nanoparticles Big and Small – How Polymer Science Can Enhance Nanomedicine, by Prof. Martina Stenzel, a world-renowned scientist known for her groundbreaking work in polymer science and drug delivery platforms. Prof. Stenzel will share insights into her innovative research on complex polymer architectures and their implementation to treat life-threatening ailments. This is a unique opportunity for students and researchers to learn from one of the leading voices in the field and engage in a thought-provoking discussion.
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/jbd-vnhk-itz
Or dial: (BE) +32 2 896 37 59 PIN: 646 091 681#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/jbd-vnhk-itz?pin=8102822218683
This event has already taken place.
Sugar-coated nanoparticles big and small – how polymer science can enhance nanomedicine
Nanomedicine is a rapidly advancing field, particularly highlighted by the recent success of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, which has drawn attention to the role of nanoparticles in medical applications. Traditionally, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been employed as a hydrophilic coating for nanoparticles to enhance their stability and circulation. However, PEG has been implicated in eliciting immunogenic responses. This has prompted investigations into alternative coatings. We are interested in the use of glycopolymers—polymers with pendant sugar units. Carbohydrates, including simple sugars, are integral to numerous biological processes. By utilizing glycopolymers, we can emulate these natural biological events, potentially improving the interaction of nanoparticles with mammalian cells. The incorporation of carbohydrate moieties on the surface of nanoparticles may facilitate their cellular uptake. This presentation explores various nanoparticles functionalized with glycopolymers and their potential applications in drug delivery. We will examine how small molecules, such as therapeutic drugs, can be incorporated into these nanoparticles, and how the presence of these drugs influences the properties and biological activity of the polymers. Additionally, we will discuss the implications of introducing synthetic nanoparticles into biological systems.
About our guest
Martina Stenzel, an ARC Laureate Fellow and Professor in the School of Chemistry at UNSW Sydney, is a leading figure in polymer science. Her research focus (for more details) is on the synthesis of complex polymer architectures, such as star polymers and comb polymers, primarily through RAFT polymerization. She is particularly noted for her innovative strategies in the development of drug delivery platforms for exploring how nanoparticles can effectively target cancer cells and deliver both organic and metal-based drugs, including platinum, ruthenium, and gold. Her work bridges chemistry, biology, and materials science.
Prof. Stenzel holds a Ph.D. in Macromolecular Chemistry (1999) from the University of Stuttgart, Germany and an MSc. in Chemistry (1996) from the University of Bayreuth, Germany. Beyond research, she plays an influential role in shaping global scientific communities. She chairs the National Chemistry Committee for the Australian Academy of Science and has held leadership roles within the Royal Australian Chemical Institute and the Pacific Polymer Council.
Her contributions have been recognized through numerous awards (more info), including the 2021 IUPAC Distinguished Women in Chemistry award, the 2017 HG Smith Medal, and fellowships with both the Royal Society of New South Wales and the Australian Academy of Science. As editor-in-chief of the RSC journal Materials Horizons and editorial advisory committee of Progress in Polymer Science, ACS MacroLetters, Macromolecules, and Polymer, she continues to impact the future of polymer science and drug delivery for biomedical applications.
