Intelligently linking nanoscience to neuroscience with glycan biology

Recent results indicate that cell type-specific drug delivery and visualisation can be achieved by targeting cellsurface glycans with luminescent nanoparticles. This project aims to provide a comprehensive description of the unique cell-surface glycan expression on inflamed neurons, astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes. It will use glycan profiling data to intelligently engineer luminescent nanoparticles with superior neuroimaging qualities for cell type-specific in vivo targeting and drug delivery in the central nervous system. The project outcomes are expected to improve our fundamental understanding of neurobiological cell-surfaces and significantly increase accessible resources for treating neurological disease and disorders.