Research

In the Steinbach-Rankins Research Group, we design and develop drug/protein/oligonucleotide delivery vehicles and biomaterials for physiologically difficult-to-deliver-to microenvironments.
In line with our core goals, we:

1. Investigate how nanoparticle modification impacts the transport and efficacy of chemotherapeutics and oligonucleotides in reproductive and ocular tumors.

2. Establish alternative dosage forms, particularly those that incorporate biologics, for safe and efficacious topical delivery against viral infections in the female reproductive tract (FRT).

3. Mechanistically examine composite delivery systems as new alternative multipurpose platforms.

4. Create more specifically and biologically targeted delivery platforms to inhibit and disrupt oral biofilm formation.

5. Create a probiotic-focused platform to inhibit bacterial FRT infections, while obtaining a better understanding of the host-microbiome-therapeutic interactions.