The modern era of Precision Medicine requires targeted delivery of molecular inhibitors that control key processes in disease pathways. PARP (Poly ADP Ribose Polymerase) plays a crucial role in the DNA repair pathways in a cell, rendering it the Achilles Heel specifically in cancer cells. We have developed novel injectable nanoformulations of PARP inhibitors that have superior bioavailability and tumor accumulation compared with available oral formulations. Extensive in vitro and in vivo studies have been carried out in ovarian, breast and prostate cancer models. These results imply an important role for the PARPi nanoformulations as chemo and radio-sensitizers enabling mono- and combination nanotherapeutic approaches for several cancers.

Theranostic nanoplatforms combine multiple functionalities including multi-modal imaging, targeting to the disease site, and delivery of the drug payload through sustained as well as triggered drug release. We discuss the applications of these nanoplatforms in local chemotherapy with INCERT implants, and MR/SPECT/optical multi-modal imaging using iron oxide nanoparticles.

Supported by the National Science Foundation, National Cancer Institute, DoD CDMRP, Mazzone Foundation and CIMIT.