The Tanner Lab is dedicated to fostering a diverse, collaborative, and interdisciplinary environment where innovation thrives at the intersection of chemistry and bioengineering. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, we aim to drive transformative advancements that bridge fundamental science and practical applications, creating solutions that impact lives.
Ionic liquids, composed of a bulky, asymmetric cation and an anion, have garnered widespread interest across diverse fields, including catalysis and energy applications. Their unique properties—non-volatility, recyclability, and molecular tunability—allow precise control over their physicochemical characteristics by modifying their ionic components. A selection of common cations and anions is depicted in the image below
By synthesizing biocompatible ionic liquids, we unlock their potential in biological applications. Structural modifications of the ionic components enable fine-tuning of their interactions with bio-interfaces, biomolecules, and pharmaceuticals, paving the way for tailored solutions to critical challenges in drug delivery, biomaterials, and therapeutic design.
Nanoparticles are widely regarded as ideal drug delivery systems, offering enhanced efficacy, safety, and specificity compared to traditional therapeutics. Their advantages are particularly evident in chemotherapy, where they aim to improve the targeted delivery of drugs like doxorubicin for cancer treatment.
However, despite their promise, most nanoparticle technologies fail to achieve clinical translation. Significant challenges—including biological barriers and clearance mechanisms—limit their effectiveness, with less than 5% of administered nanoparticles successfully reaching their intended target. Overcoming these hurdles remains a critical focus in advancing nanomedicine toward real-world therapeutic applications.
Nanomaterials are typically too large to penetrate the stratum corneum, limiting their ability to reach the epidermis and dermis. Can ionic liquids serve as carriers to transport nanoparticles through intact skin? This project explores the potential of ionic liquids to enhance transdermal nanomaterial delivery through a multidisciplinary approach involving:
Led by Alysha Hunter, this research aims to unlock new possibilities for transdermal drug delivery and nanomedicine applications.
The efficacy of injected nanoparticles is severely limited, with only a small fraction reaching their intended target. Can we engineer ionic liquids to improve intravenous nanoparticle delivery and enhance therapeutic outcomes?
This project integrates:
Led by Christine Hamadani and supported by the PhRMA Foundation, this research aims to overcome current barriers in nanomedicine and targeted drug delivery.
Efficiently delivering drugs inside cells remains a major hurdle in cancer therapy. Can ionic liquids encapsulated within nanoparticles improve intracellular transport of chemotherapies, enhancing their therapeutic efficacy?
This project focuses on:
Led by Gaya Dasanayake, this research aims to develop next-generation drug delivery systems for more effective cancer treatments.
