Predicting how PLGA drug implants release medicine in the body
Developing PBPK-model based mechanistic IVIVC for PLGA implants
This project uses lab release tests and computer PBPK models to predict how long-acting PLGA buprenorphine implants release medicine into people's bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11181632 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We will develop lab methods that mimic how PLGA buprenorphine implants release drug and measure how formulation and physicochemical properties change that release. Then we will build bottom-up physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) computer models to translate the lab release data into expected drug levels in the body. By linking the lab tests and the models we aim to create an in vitro–in vivo correlation (IVIVC) that predicts patient blood levels from in vitro results. The work combines laboratory experiments and mechanistic modeling at the University of Texas at Austin.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who currently use or may receive PLGA-based buprenorphine implants (for opioid use disorder or chronic pain) and are interested in implant performance.
Not a fit: Patients who are not using implantable therapies, are not candidates for buprenorphine, or are seeking immediate clinical benefit are unlikely to get direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help predict implant drug levels without extra clinical trials, speeding safer product development and more reliable dosing for patients.
How similar studies have performed: PBPK and IVIVC methods have supported predictions for some long-acting formulations, but mechanistic IVIVC for PLGA solid implants remains an emerging area.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Feng — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Feng
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.