Introduction of gene or drug into cells has been used for a wide range of medical applications. We are studying the use of physical delivery of drug or reprogramming factors into the cells and tissue, as a safe and reliable method. We are also exploring integrated diagnostic and therapeutic (theranostics) modalities/nanoparticles/agents, as a unique approach in nanomedicine.
Physical deliveries are based on applying electrical/mechanical stresses to the cells. In this respect, attention has been made to understand biophysical reactions to reversibly manipulate the cells by the external stress. We have been investigating promising physical delivery methods including: electroporation with nanosecond pulsed electric fields, needle-free painless microinjection, micro/nano-particle carrier laser-biolistic delivery, sonoporation with microfluidics, and shock waves; which are shown to be appropriate for clinical applications.