Over the past 30 years, scientists have synthesized a series of neuropeptides (like those occurring naturally in the brain) that offer huge potential for treating neurological diseases—from depression to Alzheimer’s. But there’s a problem: these neuropeptides are metabolized on their way to the brain. Working at the IU School of Medicine, Professor Michael Kubek and collaborators have come up with a new way to deliver neuropeptides—directly through the nose to the brain using nanoparticles that biodegrade at a rate proportional to the delivery of the drug. The results are promising. IURTC has helped Professor Kubek and his team file for and receive a patent for their discoveries.

 Find out more about Dr. Kubek’s work