Project Info
Predicting polyplex size distribution from polymer properties and formulation parameters
Ramya Kumar
ramyakumar@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Polyplexes are nanoassemblies formed when polycations come together with polyanions such as nucleic acids. In gene therapy, polyplex size distribution is a critical quality attribute that affects cellular uptake, intracellular trafficking, biodistribution, and toxicity. The goal of this project is to identify the drivers of polyplex aggregation and colloidal instability. The student will assemble polyplexes from a library of 50-60 cationic polymers at varied charge ratios, ionic environments, and assembly conditions (micromixing vs pipette mixing), perform dynamic light scattering measurements, and collate experimental findings into a comprehensive dataset. The student will apply appropriate quantitative methodologies to perform sensitivity analysis and rank-order polymer features (length, basicity, and hydrophobicity) and complexation conditions (charge ratio, pH, ionic strength, order of addition etc.) to map operating regimes where well-defined and narrowly sized polyplexes can be obtained.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer better medicines.
Primary Contacts:
Ramya Kumar, ramyakumar@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Basic lab safety, weighing solids, pipetting technique, data management, lab notebook practices, basic Python programming
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
6-10
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
DLS, statistical modeling, literature survey methods.
MENTORING PLAN
The student will work closely with the PI and two other undergraduate researchers from QBE and Chemistry
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior