I am looking for any qualified candidates who wish to do his/her postgraduate degree (Master in Research or Ph.D) for the following research project:

Title: Development of non-viral gene delivery system using chitosan-PLGA microsphere for transfection on neuron cell line(s).

Summary of the research project
Primary objective of this study is to test the ability of plasmid DNA (pDNA) fabricated into chitosan-PLGA microspheres to transfect neuron cell line using non-lipid-based transfection agents namely GeneJuice® and NanoJuice®. The API, pDNA (pGL3 control vector), is selected as it allows gene expression quantification which will provide evidence of successful transfection. pDNA-loaded chitosan-PLGA microspheres will be fabricated using a versatile double-emulsion (w/o/w) solvent-evaporation method and thereafter characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Coulter sizer for its external morphologies and size distribution, respectively. Additionally, encapsulation efficiency, in-vitro release profile and pDNA integrity will be evaluated as a function of polymer MW as well as a function of surfactant types. Transfectivity of the resultant microspheres will then be carried out on Neuro2a cell line to investigate potential application of the chitosan-PLGA microspheres to deliver DNA intracellularly. Success of the study will indicate promising use of a novel gene delivery system for gene therapy in neuronal diseases.

Principal Researcher:
Asst. Prof. Dr. Farahidah Mohamed
Kulliyyah of Pharmacy
International Islamic University Malaysia

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