New publications from LevonanoIPF group
We are pleased to announce the publication of two new scientific papers by the LevonanoIPF group that represent important milestones in the development of innovative inhalable therapies for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).
The first study, published in Drug Delivery and Translational Research, describes the development of an innovative spray-dried nano-embedded dry powder designed to deliver levothyroxine directly to the deep lung. By embedding levothyroxine nanoparticles within respirable microparticles, we obtained a formulation with excellent aerodynamic performance, efficient uptake by lung epithelial cells, and the ability to stimulate mitochondrial activity, while maintaining good biocompatibility. These findings provide proof of concept that targeted pulmonary delivery of levothyroxine may represent a promising strategy for the local treatment of IPF.
The second publication, appearing in the Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, compares this innovative spray-dried formulation with more conventional inhalable powder formulations prepared as binary and ternary blends of micronized levothyroxine with lactose or mannitol. While the carrier-based mixtures exhibited excellent aerosolization properties, the spray-dried nano-embedded powders showed a superior biological profile, with higher cell viability and markedly reduced macrophage uptake, suggesting prolonged residence in the lungs and enhanced therapeutic potential. Overall, the study demonstrates that the nano-embedded formulation achieves a better balance between aerosol performance, safety, and biological effectiveness than traditional inhalation powders.
Together, these studies strengthen the scientific rationale behind the LEVONANOIPF approach and support further development of nano-enabled inhalable levothyroxine formulations as a potential treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, bringing this innovative therapeutic strategy one step closer to clinical translation.
