Biological Colloids Lab

Welcome to the Biological Colloids Laboratory at Drexel University. Our research applies principles of colloid science to the study of human diseases, and our work can be classified into two broad categories:

I. Native Phenomena – This means attempting to better understand those colloidal phenomena which give rise to, or play an important role in, a particular disease. For example, cholesterol nucleation from aggregated vesicles and low density liproproteins is important in formation of cholesterol gallstones and atherosclerotic plaques, respectively. A fundamental understanding of cholesterol nucleation from these biological colloids could lead to strategies aimed at prevention or mitigation of the harmful effects of cholesterol crystal formation in the body.

II. Designed Systems – This involves development of colloid-based systems for treatment of disease. For example, nanoparticles can be used for targeted drug delivery within the body. A third research category involves a hybrid of the first two; that is, development of colloidal systems to interact with native biological colloids. For example, we are investigating interactions between ultrasound and surfactant mono- and bi-layers so as to improve ultrasound-assisted delivery involving microbubbles, cells, and a variety of drug-carrying vehicles. This web-site gives an overview of some of our specific research projects, and we invite you to take a closer look at our work involving biological colloids.