RESEARCH PROJECTS
Current Areas of Interest
POLYMER-PROTEIN INTERACTIONS
We are developing new assays for studying the interactions of polymer drug delivery devices in biological environments. Many highly potent drugs used to treat diseases such as cancer, inflammation, and infection, suffer from poor efficacy and uncontrolled side-effects leading to unacceptable levels of toxicity upon administration. Nanomedicines, where these drugs are packaged within a nanoparticle carrier, promises to improve on clinical outcomes by increasing drug solubility, stability, and bioavailability, while reducing non-specific toxicity. Work in the Pearce group aims study important, fundamental interactions between polymer nanoparticles and key biological molecules such as proteins and immune cells.
GENE DELIVERY & TARGETED THERAPEUTICS
We are exploring new nanoparticle strategies for targeted gene delivery in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Genome editing tools have emerged as a powerful strategy for their treatment and prevention, however therapeutic efficacy is dependent on precise temporal and spatial specificity of gene expression. We will address this challenge through rational nanoparticle design in combination with disease experts.
FLUORESCENT POLYMERS FOR SENSING
The impact that climate change is having on the world’s ecosystems affects every one of us. A new area of research in the Pearce group looks at developing fluorescent polymer sensors for detecting bacterial pathogens in drinking water sources. This interdisciplinary project is part of a larger research cluster EcoSENSE, which aims to develop advanced multi-sensing systems to monitor ecosystem health in a changing climate.
