Tom Wareing
Combined drug delivery and breast cancer imaging.
Email: t.c.wareing2@ncl.ac.uk
Project title
Layer-by-layer quantum dots-based nanotheranostics: combined drug delivery and breast cancer imaging
Supervisors
Project description
We will synthesise carbon quantum dots from biomass. We will functionalise them with a layer by layer process. This will create a nanotheranostic agent to simultaneously image and treat cancer.
Carbon quantum dots are a fluorescent nanoparticle. They have great potential as imaging agents due to their photoluminescent properties. They are highly fluorescent, resistant to photobleaching and have a tunable emission wavelength. They are also highly biocompatible and have insignificant cytotoxicity.
The layer by layer assembly allows the dots to become a drug carrier. The carrier will be able to target cancer cells and deliver anti-cancer drugs directly to them. This could reduce side effects of the drugs. The imaging properties of the system will allow doctors to see the progress of the treatment.
The main goal of this research is to prolong breast cancer survival. It will also enhance the quality of life for patients in the UK by expanding on breast cancer therapy options.
The project will have a strong impact in both academia and industry. It will be of interest to those working in nanomedicine, particularly for cancer diagnostics and therapy. The research is also relevant to pharmaceutical and medical companies who are developing new therapeutic approaches to treat cancer.
Interests
- Academic: medicinal chemistry, cancer research, nanotheranostics, nanomedicine, bioimaging, layer by layer assemblies
- Non-academic: acapella society, ukulele, freshwater aquarium, gaming
Qualifications
First class Master’s in Chemistry, University of Central Lancashire
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wareing-22a579152/