Research Initiation Award: Investigating the Fundamental Interactions between Nanoparticle-based Systems and the iPSC-derived Blood-Labyrinth Barrier (BLB) In Vitro Model

The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP), through Research Initiation Awards provide support for junior and mid-career faculty at Historically Black Colleges and Universities who are building new research programs or redirecting and rebuilding existing research programs. It is expected that the award helps to further the faculty member's research capability and effectiveness and improve research and teaching at the home institution. This award to North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University supports faculty and undergraduate research experiences in their efforts to develop and study engineered nanoparticles' interactions with biological barriers in the inner ear to reduce hearing loss associated with chemotherapy treatments. The research activity aims to develop new approaches to study how therapeutic materials can be designed to safely reach and protect sensitive structures within the inner ear. In addition, the project provides hands-on research opportunities for students, supporting workforce development and expanding access to training in biomedical engineering. By integrating research and education, the project contributes to the preparation of students for careers in science and engineering while advancing the development of efficient medical treatments. The overall goal of this project focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and biological investigation of the interactions between nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and a biologically relevant in vitro model of the Blood-Labyrinth Barrier derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. The research develops and characterizes a library of nanoparticles with varied physicochemical properties and surface modifications to evaluate transport, uptake, and cytotoxicity. A co-culture barrier model and a three-dimensional cell culture system are used to assess nanoparticle penetration and interaction with inner ear cells. The study incorporates innovative experimental pathways to ensure continued progress, including the use of validated nanoparticle systems and simplified in vitro platforms. Outcomes from this work will potentially advance fundamental understanding of nanoparticle transport across biological barriers and inform the design of targeted drug delivery systems. The project also integrates structured student training and assessment to support skill development in experimental techniques, data analysis, and research communication. The engagement of students in this project, coupled with the pioneering efforts are likely to enhance the institutional research capacity of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.