Mathematical methods are employed to identify combinations of size, shape, and physico-chemical properties that yield optimal transport properties following systemic injection. Three components of the transport process in tumor-associated capillaries are studied: Margination toward the vascular endothelium; Firm adhesion on target endothelial surfaces; and endothelial cell uptake by phagocytosis and receptor-mediated mechanisms. Design Maps are introduced to provide guidance on the transport properties of the vectors. The optimal design hypotheses yielded by the mathematical analyses are tested in flow chambers and in animal models.
*Co-author Paolo Decuzzi
Audio (MP3 File, Podcast Ready)
Copyright. All Rights Reserved.