The advance of nanomedicine requires the development of novel materials with tailored properties, controlled circulation, optimal targeting and therapeutic efficacy after administration. Nanomaterials engineered with glycans offer multiple possibilities for nanomedicine as these biomolecules when arranged on a nanomaterial surface display strong binding to specific receptors while at the same time the glyco coating can restrict unspecific interactions with proteins, helping to avoid the mononuclear phagocyte system and improved biocompatibility in vivo.
The NanoCarb Network will develop novel and well-characterised nanomaterials with synthetic and native N-glycans that will be used for therapeutics and guide development of new drug delivery applications.
The project will train early stage researchers at the interface of nanotechnology and glycosciences, with the overall goal of achieving a new generation of professionals in nanomedicine for a prospective career in both academia and industry.
To achieve this goal a multidisciplinary consortium has been created including universities, research centres and SMEs with broad expertise ranging from nanotechnology, carbohydrate chemistry, glycoprofiling and in vitro – in vivo screening specialists. An ambitious training plan will be implemented including courses, outreach activities, participation in seminar, and workshops for the development of scientific and transferable skills.