Nanocarriers are highly specific delivery systems designed to transport therapeutic agents directly to their site of action and release them in a controlled manner. InnoMedica utilizes liposomal nanocarriers that are modeled on the body’s natural transport mechanisms.
Liposomal nanocarriers consist of a lipid bilayer structure. They are loaded with a therapeutic agent to enable its targeted delivery to the site of disease, thereby minimizing exposure of healthy tissue. Prolonged circulation time in the bloodstream combined with controlled release at the site of action is intended to enhance efficacy while reducing side effects. Owing to their modular structure, these nanocarriers can be combined with a wide range of active substances.
The current focus of application lies in neurology, where InnoMedica is developing a therapy for Parkinson’s disease aimed at addressing the neurodegenerative processes underlying the condition.
The nanocarrier developed for InnoMedica’s neurology program is designed to transport the membrane-integrated active substance GM1 ganglioside across the blood–brain barrier. GM1 ganglioside is an essential component of neuronal cell membranes and plays a central role in neuronal development, signal transmission and storage, regenerative processes, and the release of neurotrophic factors — signaling molecules that are critical for the survival and regeneration of nerve cells. By means of the nanocarrier technology, increased levels of GM1 can reach the site of action in the brain, enabling its neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects. As an endogenous substance, GM1 is generally well tolerated.
The nanocarrier used in InnoMedica’s oncology product delivers the established active substance doxorubicin and is designed to mitigate its known severe side effects. An optimized surface coating of the nanocarrier reduces interaction with healthy tissue. The extended circulation time supports controlled drug exposure and may help reduce the burden on elimination organs. Its particularly small particle size facilitates targeted penetration into tumor tissue and promotes higher local drug concentrations within the tumor.
InnoMedica’s nanocarrier platform provides the technological foundation for targeted therapeutic strategies — from Parkinson’s disease to oncology and beyond.
