BrainMap

Raul-Augustin Mitran

Dr.

- INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Researcher | PhD supervisor

Expertise & keywords

Design of novel composite materials based on mesoporous matrices by exploring the nanoconfinement effect Call name: P 4 - Proiecte de cercetare exploratorie - PCE-2021
PN-III-P4-PCE-2021-1548 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://comconf.chimie.upb.ro/

Abstract:

The project deals with antibiotic-free antibacterial strategies based on nanomaterials, a hot topic of research because mankind is facing with a growing resistance on bacteria and aims to develop novel composites containing polyphenols nanoconfined into mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) chemical modified to enhance their stability and to improve health benefits due to synergistic effect of components for topic applications with antibacterial properties. The project will explore unconventional extraction techniques (pressurized liquid extraction or ultrasound-assisted extraction) and pre-treatments to obtain phenolic extracts with desired chemical profile, surface engineering for the design of modified MSN to develop novel formulations for extracts with health benefits, tailoring polyphenols - MSN interactions for enhanced phytocompounds stability when are encapsulated in MSN, as well as an appropriate release. Antimicrobial and effects at cellular levels of formulations containing polyphenols will be assessed. For extracts obtaining as vegetal material will be used wild berries from Romanian mountains. For envisaged application, mesoporous silica will be modified not only with organic groups, but also with inorganic nanoparticles (TiO2, ZnO, Ag, or Cu) to contribute to composites bactericidal activity. The polyphenols-silica composite with best features will be incorporated in a natural polymer for wound dressing applications.

One–Pot Catalytic Conversion of Cellulose into Platform Molecules: Lactic Acid Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-4171 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://celmollac.wordpress.com/

Abstract:

Lactic acid(LA) has attracted a significantly attention of the researchers due to its wide application in food processing and preservation, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries and mainly in the synthesis of the polylactic acid. The production of LA in the presence of the heterogeneous acid catalysts attracted the attention of researchers because they are environmentally more sustainable according to the principles of green chemistry. Taking into account the previous studies published, the water-tolerant nature of niobium(V) Lewis acid sites, the strong metal support interaction properties of titanium oxide with transition metals, the existence of Lewis and Brønsted acid sites on the surface of niobium oxide as well as the catalytic activity of titanosilicates in the production of lactic acid derivatives from sugars we propose in this project to validate the process for the synthesis of Nb-based catalysts for the first time to the best of our knowledge, such as niobium doped titanium oxide prepared by solution combustion synthesis, Ti-silicalite-1 with MFI framework and bimodal pore systems (micro-/mesoporosity) supported niobia and activated carbon (obtained from spent ground coffee) supported titanium and niobium oxides and to develop also an experimental model for one-pot conversion of cellulose into lactic acid over Nb-based catalysts,aforementioned, at laboratory scale.

The prepared materials will be exhaustively characterized by using different several techniques such as Pyridine-FTIR, NH3- TPD, XRD, BET, XPS, SEM-EDX, TEM, TG/DTA with the aim to establish a physico-chemical characteristics - catalytic performances correlation in the synthesis of LA from cellulose. Parameters such as: the effect of the amount of catalysts tested, reaction time, reaction temperature will be explored in order to optimize the cellulose conversion to LA.

Transfer of innovative co-crystallization technologies for the development of nutraceutical functional products Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2021-0393 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: TERACRYSTAL SRL

Project partners: TERACRYSTAL SRL (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://teracrystal.com/research/

Abstract:

The project proposal "Transfer of innovative co-crystallization technologies for the development of nutraceutical functional products -INOCRYSTAL", aims to (i) validating a functional model for the preparation of nutraceutical functional products obtained by (ii) innovative technologies based on the co-crystallization of resveratrol and piperazine and (iii) strengthening TeraCrystal's innovation capacity in obtaining new products with nutraceutical properties for the livestock sector, both for the domestic and foreign markets. This project proposal capitalizes on the results of its own research, obtained through the collaboration between the two partners (TeraCrystal srl and the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Romanian Academy) and materialized by obtaining an international patent (US 20210032210A1). Based on the results obtained at laboratory scale, a functional model (TRL5) is proposed, which involves cocrystals obtained by the homogenization/milling technique of resveratrol and piperazine in the presence of ethyl alcohol. A discontinuous technological process is used with 2 kg rods. It can be estimated that the product thus obtained possesses nutraceutical functions and generates a profit of 30.000 euro/month for a 100kg production. It is also proposed to patent the technology for obtaining the nutraceutical product and to disseminate the results by participating in two international conferences and publishing three ISI listed papers.

Advanced medical systems for boron-capture enhanced proton therapy Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-1827 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA NAŢIONALĂ DE ŞTIINŢĂ ŞI TEHNOLOGIE POLITEHNICA BUCUREŞTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://amsbpcept.chimie.upb.ro/

Abstract:

The project, Advanced medical systems for boron-capture enhanced proton therapy (AMSBPCET), is complex interdisciplinary research that integrates the expertise of chemical engineers, physicists, and biologists from three research groups, two from University “Politehnica” of Bucharest and one from Horia Hulubei National Institute for R&D in Physics and Nuclear Engineering.

The scope of the project is proof-of-concept technology (TRL4) for obtaining advanced systems containing mesoporous silica functionalized with boronic acid (MSN-B) loaded with an antitumoral agent (At) for boron proton-capture enhanced proton therapy (BPCEPT) that integrates multiple functionalities: carrier for an antitumoral compound–MSN-B, targeting the tumoral tissue due to the presence of boronic acid groups, presence of moieties containing boron for 11B proton capture therapy, and the delivery of the antitumoral compound into tumoral tissue triggered by protons beam irradiation. The novelty of this project consists in using for the first-time mesoporous silica functionalized with boronic acid as nanocarrier for an anticancer agent for combining boron proton-capture therapy with chemotherapy for an enhanced effectiveness of the cancer treatment. 6 objectives have been identified for fulfilling the project aim: (i) obtaining of MSN-B with particles size lower than 100 nm for targeting and accumulation into tumoral tissue; (ii) loading of MSN-B with an antitumoral agent (MSN-B-At); (iii) assessment of the cytotoxicity of MSN-B and MSN-B-At by highlighting the main endocytotic mechanisms involved in nanoparticles uptake; (iv) evaluation of MSN-B and MSN-B-At for BPCEPT. (v) Assessment of MSN-B and MSN-B-At internalization by hyperspectral microscopy; (vi) demonstration at laboratory scale the functionality of developed MSN-B-At systems for BPCEPT.

Biomedical applications of hybrid materials based on graphene oxide and fluorescent structures Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente - TE-2021
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2021-0288 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://www.icf.ro/pr_2022/BIOGOM.ppt

Abstract:

In this project, we present a simple method for the preparation of new fluorescent hybrid systems, based on amino-coumarin and nitro-benzofurazan derivatives that attach covalently or non-covalently to graphene oxide (GO). In the first stage, our method aims to increase the number of carboxyl groups required for functionalization with amino-coumarin derivatives. To achieve this, the hydroxyl groups can be converted by derivatization with chloroacetic acid into carboxylic groups, transforming GO into GO-COOH material. Activation of carboxylic groups is an important step in improving its reactivity to nucleophilic reagents, and this is done using the carbodiimide-promoted reaction. In the second stage, the amidation reaction with the amino group of the coumarin compounds will take place. We will also synthesize, from lipoic acid and two nitro-benzofurazan derivatives, new multifunctional molecules with enhanced biological properties, which we will attach non-covalently to GO to preserve their fluorescent properties. The obtained materials will be evaluated by numerous characterization techniques, and their fluorescence will be highlighted by live-cell imaging. Their antimicrobial activity will be tested on Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as on bacteria and fungi in planktonic and biofilm growth states. Biocompatibility of the compounds will be assayed using 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and lactate dehydrogenase tests.

Metal-ceramic nanocomposites: next-generation thermal energy storage materials Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2019-1456 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2019/TE166_2020.pdf

Abstract:

Currently, the only “green” technology which can replace polluting coal or gas power plants for continuous energy generation is Concentrated Solar Power. This can be coupled with thermal energy storage, typically using molten salts. However these materials have limited operating temperature range, leading to decreased plant efficiency. The MOST project aims to study innovative metal – porous ceramic composites for high temperature energy storage. The materials will act as shape-stabilized phase-change materials (PCM), using both latent and sensible heat storage. Latent heat storage at elevated temperatures improves the heat to electricity conversion efficiency, yielding lower cost per kWh. This approach is based on a concept demonstrated by the team in 2015, involving the maximization of heat storage agent through nanoconfinement into porous oxide matrices. The projects aims at both fundamental studies of metal/semi-metal nanoconfinement into porous inorganic matrices and applicative research aiming to increase the TRL of these materials to at least 2. A laboratory demonstration of gram-scale synthesis of a nanocomposite PCM with at least 50% wt. metal and shape-stability will be carried out.

The project proposes a multidisciplinary approach and aims to consolidate the research team position as a leader in the field of shape-stabilized phase change materials with high storage potential for elevated temperatures (>200 °C), based on nanoconfinement effects. Furthermore, the project activities are aimed at both applicative and fundamental research, increasing the team international visibility and capacity for further collaborative projects with industry and academia, as well as addressing the important challenge of mitigating anthropogenic carbon emissions associated with energy generation.

Nanoplatform for natural and synthetic compounds with synergistic cytotoxic effect Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-2553 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "CAROL DAVILA" (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO)

Project website: https://www.researchgate.net/project/Nanoplatform-for-natural-and-synthetic-compounds-with-synergistic-cytotoxic-effect

Abstract:

This project is an interdisciplinary research that integrates the expertise of chemists, physicists and physicians, involving three research groups, two from UPB and the other from UMF that have already collaborated. The scope of this project is the development and testing at laboratory scale of a new complex targeted nanoplatform containing functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) coated by fucoidan, a natural sulfated polysaccharide with anticancer and immunotherapeutic activity, for Irinotecan that integrates at least 3 functionalities (TRL4): carrier, targeting and intracellular delivery. The development of the new platform is based on the concept that an oral administration of the Irinotecan, a cytostatic agent, commonly used for colon cancer, combined with fucoidan, could increase its therapeutic efficiency and reduce side effects and its gathers the most advanced scientific results for the encapsulation, targeting and controlled intracellular release of the cytostatic agent (TRL3). All these components were proved to be valuable for the drug delivery systems, but all of them were never assembled in a single advanced delivery system with expected synergistic effect, and this is the step forward in our research and the novelty of this proposal for a laboratory demonstration. Based on our knowledge, it is for the first time that Irinotecan-loaded MSN is combined with fucoidan for a synergistic anticancer effect. Another novel aspect of this proposal consists in identification of membrane/intracellular localization of nanoplatform used for cytostatic agent delivery by using hyperspectral microscopy. Modulation of Irinotecan-nanoplatform cytotoxic activity will highlights the main endocytotic mechanisms involved in nanoplatforms uptake.

Functionalized mesoporous bioglass based 3D scaffolds for hard tissue regeneration Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-0598 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU STIINTE BIOLOGICE (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2019/BIOSCAFTIS/index.html

Abstract:

The project proposal “Functionalized mesoporous bioglass based 3D scaffolds for hard tissue regeneration“, aims to improve the well-being of people by treating them with new biomaterials. The objective of the project is to restore and improve the function of hard tissue by using functional bioactive scaffolds. These scaffolds will provide good mechanical properties in a suitable environment for tissue regeneration and repair. Sodium free mesoporous bioglasses (MBGs) doped with cerium will be used for scaffold manufacture using a combination of structure-directing agents and a polymer foam replication method. The BIOSCAFTIS project is based on our early results demonstrating that MBGs doped with cerium have good bioactivity and biocompatibility properties. In order to improve the growth and remodelling of bone tissue the surface of the scaffold will be functionalized with vitamin D3. The properties of the scaffolds e.g. bioactivity, mechanical strength, antimicrobial activity and drug delivery profile will be evaluated using adequate characterization techniques. The performance integration of 3D scaffolds to native tissues will be investigated using in vitro experimental models mimicking interaction with osteoblast cells. As a result of the research the project aims to disrupt the area of biomaterials by developing a new class of materials for medical applications.

NEW DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE CONSERVATION AND REVITALIZATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPONENTS FROM NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0476 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); UNIVERSITATEA OVIDIUS (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); UNIVERSITATEA "VALAHIA" TARGOVISTE (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: https://icechim.ro/project/tehnologii-noi-de-diagnoza-si-tratament-pentru-conservarea-si-revitalizarea-componentelor-arheologice-ale-patrimoniului-cultural-national-arheocons/

Abstract:

The cultural heritage, as a source of national historical and cultural authenticity, is subjected to deterioration, and for stopping it, some specific procedures are required: cleaning, replacement of old materials and application of new protective materials compatible with the original, and advanced monitoring with sustainability assessment. The consortium of the present project has a unique expertise in Romania, recognised in Europe, through the many published papers, essential projects in Romania (Basarabi Churches, Potlogi Palace, etc.), OSIM and EPO patents, technology transfer, nanomaterials in chemical and biological preservation for cultural heritage objects and objectives; the partner institutions complement each other on a regional basis in the working plan of the whole project.

The overall objective of the project is to develop new materials, new methods and technologies that obey the principles of authenticity, reversibility and value, with a strong impact on immobile cultural heritage objects (fresco, basreliefs and mosaic) and mobile (decorative artefacts from ceramics, glass, metal, bone, objects of art and archaeology). Specific objectives: Developing innovative technologies for protecting national cultural heritage, multidisciplinary cross-sectoral approach, encouraging young professionals as leaders in heritage preservation, exploitation of research results for new jobs, promoting heritage education, professional expertise among all factors involved in the patrimony protection system.

The project, with a high degree of innovation and originality, applies unique technologies in Romania based on new materials compatible with the original materials and develops new techniques practical applied to: Roman Mosaic and Hypogeum Tomb, Constanta, Adamclisi Museum (basreliefs), Constanta County, Corvin’s Castle (Fresca Loggia Mathia) and Archaeology Museum, Hunedoara.

COMPLEX VALORISATION OF BLACK SEA REGION BIORESOURCES BY DEVELOPING AND APPLYING INNOVATIVE AND EMERGING BIOTECHNOLOGIES Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0701 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA OVIDIUS

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA OVIDIUS (RO); INSTITUTUL NAŢIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MARINĂ "GRIGORE ANTIPA"-I.N.C.D.M. CONSTANŢA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU STIINTE BIOLOGICE (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); STATIUNEA DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU VITICULTURA SI VINIFICATIE MURFATLAR (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: https://univovidius.wixsite.com/inobiomar

Abstract:

Natural products from marine species are increasingly studied as their functional properties are discovered. These properties have benefits for human health while depending on their geographical region of origin. As abundant marine resources with insufficiently exploited therapeutic potential exist, the present proposal aims to harness the Black Sea bioresources through developing innovative technologies for obtaining biorenewable pharmaceutics preparations. The membrane/bioadhesive disks preparations consist of bioactive compounds from marine extracts encapsulated into mesoporous functionalized silica matrices and have controlled release. The Black Sea bioresources valorization will be improved by using the residual biomass from technological flux as biofertilizer for vineyards. New technologies for efficient extraction and preservation of active ingredients, encapsulation in pharmaceutical and nanostructured silica matrices, obtaining modern, therapeutically/cosmetic efficient formulations tested in vitro, will be developed. The project will be completed by a multidisciplinary consortium composed of UOC, INCDM, UPB, INCDSB, having a new research center with personnel deficit (Romanian Academy-ICF) and a relaunching center- SCDVV Murtfatlar, which will develop and use the common infrastructure, existing and newly created human resources, both through the project implementation and future collaborations, while strengthening the partners’ institutional capacity through improving their services offers. The project will achieve TRL 5. The main goal of the complex project can be achieved through the complementarity of the 5 component projects, having 6 patent applications and developing new fabrication technologies for 3 pharmaceutical formulations with synergetic action as deliverables, which can be translated to economic beneficiaries.

Nanoconfinement in mesoporous Silica: Towards next generation Energy storage Materials Call name: P 1 - SP 1.1 - Proiecte de cercetare pentru stimularea tinerelor echipe independente
PN-III-P1-1.1-TE-2016-0520 2018 - 2020

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO)

Project website: http://www.icf.ro/pr_2018/Contract_95_2018_stema.pdf

Abstract:

The most promising “green” energy generation and storage technology which can economically replace coal and gas at scale is concentrated solar power (CSP). The STEMA project aims to increase the heat storage capacity for this technology with ~50% by developing new solid, shape-stabilized phase change materials through the nanoconfinement of molten salts (such as alkali nitrates and halides) in mesoporous silica matrices. This innovative approach is based on a concept demonstrated by the project team in 2015, involving the maximization of the weight fraction of the active heat storage component through impregnation inside the silica mesopores and in the interparticle spaces, while yielding shape-stability (preservation of macroscopic solid form upon active component phase transition) through capillary forces. The project aims at laboratory demonstration of a novel material with 220J/g heat storage over 100 °C range, an increase of ~50% over state-of-the-art. In contrast with current approaches based only on sensible heat storage, this project will utilize both latent and sensible heat storage mechanisms, increasing the storage capacity and operating temperature range which will yield increased efficiencies and decreased cost per kWh for CSP. Fundamental research pertaining to this promising research field will also be carried out, with the aims of investigating the physico-chemical processes taking place upon molten salt nanoconfinement (adsorption/desorption, crystallization, stability and chemical reactions).

The project proposes a multidisciplinary approach and aims to consolidate the research team position as a leader in the field of shape-stabilized phase change materials with high storage potential, based on nanoconfinement effects. Furthermore, the project activities are aimed at both applicative and fundament research, increasing the team international visibility and capacity for further collaborative projects with industry and academia.

Drug delivery systems based on mesoporous inorganic matrix Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 2
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.2-0437 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); UNIV.DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE - CAROL DAVILA (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE FIZICA - ILIE MURGULESCU (RO); POLIPHARMA INDUSTRIES S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO)

Project website: http://www.chim.upb.ro/uploads/cafe/pages/mesodrug.html

Abstract:

The project Drug delivery systems based on mesoporous inorganic matrix approaches a very complex research in a topic of great interest for the human health and will be execute by a consortium. The complex project is structured in 3 stages as modules, with a total duration of 31 months.

The main challenge of this proposal is to convert some injectable cytostatic drugs in oral targeted drug delivery systems with controlled release. Besides this, another challenge of the project is to perform a complete investigation of interactions between inorganic matrix and pharmaceutical active compounds by various techniques, the interactions between both obtained drug delivery systems (DDS) and inorganic carriers with cells and cellular membrane, as well as the drug release form the obtained DDS in biological synthetic fluids according to pharmaceutical standards. None of the participant institution is able to complete alone this multidisciplinary, complex research. The consortium, consisting in two prestigious universities, University Politehnica of Bucharest (coordinator), “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, together with Institute of Physical Chemistry - Romanian Academy and S.C. Polypharma Industries Sibiu the end user, can fulfill these challenges.

It is proposed to investigate DDS based on three type mesoporous carriers, with adequate surface modification, silica, titania and ceria, as well as magnetic core-shell mesoporous silica. The DDS efficiency will be studied via cell viability and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production, as well as by United Pharmacopeia Standards (UPS).

Expected results should be of high scientific level and could be valorized in valuable publications in high ranked journals, one patent and technology transfer towards the end user.

FILE DESCRIPTION	DOCUMENT
List of research grants as project coordinator or partner team leader
Significant R&D projects for enterprises, as project manager
R&D activities in enterprises
Peer-review activity for international programs/projects