Macromolecular Delivery
- Craig Duvall - Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University
- Krishanu Saha - Associate Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Punit Seth, PhD - Vice President, Medicinal Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals
- Jyothi Thundimadathil, PhD - Associate Director, Chemistry, Manufacturing and Control, Bachem Americas, Inc.
Proteins and peptides fulfill an irreplaceable role as medicines due to their high affinity, specificity, low toxicity, and ability to alter protein-protein interactions. They are widely recognized as therapeutic agents in the treatment of a variety of conditions, including diabetes, osteoporosis, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and leukemia. Clinical development is on-going as the pharmaceutical industry works to harness the potential of peptides for many other conditions. While incredible progress has been made in designing peptide- and protein-based drugs for multiple therapeutic uses, challenges remain. This paper explores challenges of peptide- and protein-based new chemical entities [NCEs] including potential chemical and physical instabilities, enzymatic degradation, and their rapid elimination from circulation.
Addressing these challenges has led to growing demand for more innovation and enhanced technological capabilities. The formulation of nanoparticles and microspheres for peptide delivery, to enhance bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy, is emerging as one innovative approach. Bachem is dedicated to exploring the potential of discoveries in the field of life science research and development. Innovation is integral and the company strives to continuously expand its know-how in chemistries and technologies through internal research projects as well as by collaboration with external research institutions. We are currently developing a proprietary fully automated peptide synthesis system in-house which in combination with high capacity and state-of-the-art production equipment will allow us to achieve short delivery times without compromising on quality.
Bachem’s support and expertise is vital in achieving successful formulation of microspheres and nanoparticles, where the production of high quality active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in the first instance is critical. This includes the intrinsic properties of the peptides themselves, for example solubility, as well as the procedures of API release following production. To meet these high standards, development teams are being driven to access Bachem’s specialist expertise in the production of superior quality APIs.