Constructor University researchers discover new transport pathway for active substances into the cell
One of the major challenges facing cell research is how to target substances to combat diseases. A team from Constructor University, in cooperation with scientists from the University of Vienna, discovered a new, promising method using spherical metal oxide molecules known as polyoxometalates. They report on the results of their research in the journal "Advanced Materials," one of the most important publication media outlets in chemistry and materials science.
The metal oxide molecules are already known as antitumor, antibacterial, antiviral and anticancer agents. What is new, however, is the discovery that certain variants with two different metals are also able to overcome membrane barriers. Drugs can, thus, reach a cell in a more targeted manner, which can lead to better and more efficient results in the medical and pharmaceutical field.
"The method has a broad application potential," says first author Dr. Andrea Barba-Bon, who is researching the development of the method at Constructor University as part of Prof. Dr. Werner Nau’s chemistry working group, alongside doctoral student Maryam Ashjari.
The use of inorganic, i.e. non-carbon-based, drug transporters is a recent development that was only introduced last year in a Nature publication. While until recently the application was limited to spherical molecules with the element boron, new avenues are now opening up with metal-containing molecules. "For the first time, this creates possibilities for tailoring the transporters to the active ingredient to be delivered," said Nau, "because the discovery of the new class means that a broader portfolio of different transporters is now available."
Publication link:
DOI: 10.1002/adma.202309219
Research Contact:
Dr. Werner Nau | Provost and Professor of Chemistry
wnau@constructor.university | Tel.: +49 421 200-3233
About Constructor University:
Founded in 2001, Constructor University is a top-ranked, English-language, private university, with a campus in Bremen, Germany. With its interdisciplinary approach, advanced digital learning tools and accredited programs, it equips students with fundamental knowledge, critical thinking and practical skills to build their professional career and address the world’s most pressing challenges.
The University emphasizes a synergetic and entrepreneurial spirit, offering program mentoring from top-tier professors and industry experts. Partner collaborations include the Constructor Institute in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, Carnegie Mellon, the National University of Singapore, the University of Geneva, and industry references such as Anisoprint, JetBrains and ChemDiv.
Internationality and diversity lie at the heart of Constructor University, with more than 110 nations at its vibrant and close-knit campus community in Bremen. There, students enjoy active campus life, with access to clubs, professional networks and academic counselling, essential to their personal and academic growth.
Research-centric faculty projects at the University are funded by the German Research Foundation, the European Union's Framework Program for Research and Innovation, and globally leading companies.
The greater Constructor Knowledge ecosystem includes Constructor University in Bremen, Germany, and Constructor Institute in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. It is a provider of education services with education tools, worldwide traditional and online educational services, as well as advisory and strategic services to education customers in the fields of student recruitment, communications, and marketing support.