Research

Targeted Therapeutics

The Williams Lab’s therapeutic development work is currently focused on developing and deploying highly specific polymeric nanoparticles that target the kidneys. Given that the overwhelming majority of nanoparticles localize to the liver and spleen, this kidney-targeting behavior is unique, enabling a wide range of therapeutic possibilities. As treatment options for acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease are currently limited, the Williams Lab is exploring these nanoparticles as a platform for the treatment of such ailments.

We aim to develop targeted therapeutic versions of various biologic and small molecule targets to the site of acute and chronic renal diseases. This involves enhancing renal targeting through novel particle design and in vitro evaluation. Particle safety, pharmacology, and therapeutic efficacy are investigated in established rodent models of renal diseases. Ex vivo and in vivo imaging and endpoint evaluations complement and inform advancement of materials. We aim to bring these translational therapeutics to the clinic for better patient outcomes.

Highlighted renal-targeted drug delivery publications: Williams et al. 2015 Nano Letters; Williams et al. 2018 Hypertension; Han et al. 2020 Kidney International; Williams et al. 2020 bioRxiv Preprint

Nanosensors

The Williams Lab’s nanosensor development work is currently focused on engineering and implementing highly sensitive and specific optical sensors. We are working to design single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) sensor platforms for ex vivo, in vivo, and remote analysis of targets. These platforms involve multiplexed analyte detection in microfluidic and implantable formats.

We aim to develop tools revolving around cancer and other inflammation driven diseases. This includes early detection, treatment efficacy monitoring, and disease progression treatment. As such, we are investigating targets within the immune system and clinical therapeutics. Using novel spectroscopic and microscopic methodologies, we investigate sensor performance and function through in vitro and ex vivo methodologies. The lab also uses rodent disease models to evaluate nanosensor safety and push the boundaries of sensor functionality. We aim to mature these into research tools for investigating biological processes and clinical diagnostics.

Highlighted SWCNT sensor publications: Harvey et al. 2017 Nature Biomedical Engineering; Williams et al. 2018 Science Advances; Williams et al. 2018 ACS Sensors; Harvey and Williams et al. 2019 Nano Letters