Advanced Drug Delivery Systems:

• Developing innovative nanocarriers and biomaterials for targeted drug delivery to enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects.
• Exploring the potential of stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems for precise control of drug release.
• Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize drug delivery system design and formulation.

Combating Antimicrobial Resistance:

• Designing novel antimicrobial agents and delivery systems to overcome bacterial resistance mechanisms.
• Investigating the role of the immune system in antimicrobial resistance and developing immunomodulatory strategies.
• Developing combination therapies and synergistic approaches to combat multidrug-resistant infections.

Cancer Therapeutics:

• Developing targeted therapies for cancer, including antibody-drug conjugates, nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, and cancer vaccines.
• Investigating the role of the tumor microenvironment in cancer progression and developing strategies to target it.
• Exploring the potential of personalized medicine and precision oncology in cancer treatment.

Neglected Tropical Disease Prevention:

• Developing affordable and effective drug delivery systems for neglected tropical diseases, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• Investigating the role of vector control and public health interventions in preventing and controlling neglected tropical diseases.
• Developing novel vaccines and immunotherapies for neglected tropical diseases.

Emerging Research Interests:

• Immunotherapy and Cancer Immunotherapy:
• Developing immune checkpoint inhibitors and other immunotherapies to enhance the body’s natural defenses against cancer.
• Investigating the role of the microbiome in cancer immunotherapy and developing strategies to modulate it.
• Digital Health and Personalized Medicine:
• Developing personalized medicine approaches to tailor drug therapy to individual patients based on their genetic and molecular profiles.

 Impact Factor ~350, Citation: 3356, h-index: 42, i10-index: 64

1.      Balquis, F., Sohail, M. F., Hamid, H., Ullah, W., Khan, A. H., & Shahnaz, G. (2023). Potential and weak links in the management of tuberculosis by Pakistani private pharmacy staff. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, 983997. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.983997 (Impact Factor: 5.18) - Category: W

2.      Ahmed, N., Sohail, M. F., Khurshid, Z., et al. (2023). Synthesis, characterization, and in vivo distribution of 99mTc radiolabeled docetaxel-loaded folic acid-thiolated chitosan enveloped liposomes. BioNanoScience, 13, 134–144. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12668-022-00953-0 (Impact Factor: 3.63) - Category: W

3.      Shakeel, M., Kiani, M. H., Sarwar, H. S., Akhtar, S., Rauf, A., Ibrahim, I. M., Ajalli, N., Shahnaz, G., Rahdar, A., & Díez-Pascual, A. M. (2023). Emulgel-loaded mannosylated thiolated chitosan-coated silver nanoparticles for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 227, 1293-1304. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.07.042 (Impact Factor: 8.025) - Category: W

4.      Zahra, T., Sarwar, H. S., Sarfraz, M., Zaman, M., Ahmad, H., Jalil, A., Shahnaz, G., & Sohail, M. F. (2022). Thiomer-coated solid lipid nanoparticles for enhanced oral bioavailability of tacrolimus: In vitro and in vivo evaluation. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, 67, 102921. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jddst.2022.102921 (Impact Factor: 5.062) - Category: W

5.      Kiani, M., et al. (2022). Cholesterol-decorated thiolated stereocomplexed nanomicelles for improved anti-mycobacterial potential via efflux pump and mycothione reductase inhibition. Journal of Molecular Liquids, 349, 118639. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2022.118639 (Impact Factor: 6.16) - Category: W

6.      Qaisar, A. (2022). Design and synthesis of multifunctional polymeric micelles for targeted delivery in Helicobacter pylori infection. Journal of Molecular Liquids, 348, 118652. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2022.118652 (Impact Factor: 6.16) - Category: W

7.      Arshad, R., Arshad, M. S., Tabish, T. A., Shah, S. N. H., Afzal, S., & Shahnaz, G. (2022). Amidated Pluronic decorated muco-penetrating self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for improved anti-Salmonella typhi potential. Pharmaceutics, 14(11), 2433. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14112433 (Impact Factor: 5.55) - Category: W

8.      Jahan, F., Zaman, S. U., Syed, M. A., Arshad, R., Amjad, O., Ali, I., Gul, R., Shahnaz, G., Aamir, M. N., & Hanif, S. (2022). HPLC method development and validation for in vitro and in vivo quantification of vancomycin in rabbit plasma. Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 35(6(Special)), 1683-1690. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-022-03785-3 (Impact Factor: 0.79) - Category: W

9.      Shahid, S., Ahmed, F., Shahnaz, G., Saqlain, M., Ans, M., & Sana, A. (2022). The impact of theoretical and practical guidance regarding metered dose inhaler technique on asthma patients. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 14(3), 327-332. https://doi.org/10.4103/jyp.jyp_13_22 - Category: W

10.   Nazir, F., Tabish, T. A., Tariq, F., Iftikhar, S., Wasim, R., & Shahnaz, G. (2022). Stimuli-sensitive drug delivery systems for site-specific antibiotic release. Drug Discovery Today, 27(6), 1698-1705. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drudis.2022.02.005 (Impact Factor: 8.369) - Category: W

11.   Javed QUA, Syed MA, Arshad R, Rahdar A, Irfan M, Raza SA, Shahnaz G, Hanif S, Díez-Pascual AM. Evaluation and Optimization of Prolonged Release Mucoadhesive Tablets of Dexamethasone for Wound Healing: In Vitro-In Vivo Profiling in Healthy Volunteers. Pharmaceutics, 2022 Apr 7; 14(4):807. Impact Factor: 6.525.

12.   Habib, R., Azad, A.K., Akhlaq, M., Al-Joufi, F.A., Shahnaz, G., Mohamed, H.R.H., Naeem, M., Almalki, A.S.A., Asghar, J., Jalil, A., Abdel-Daim, M.M. Thiolated Chitosan Microneedle Patch of Levosulpiride from Fabrication, Characterization to Bioavailability Enhancement Approach. Polymers, 2022; 14:415. Impact Factor: 4.967.

13.   Razzaq, S., Rauf, A., Raza, A., Akhtar, S., Tabish, T.A., Sandhu, M.A., Zaman, M., Ibrahim, I.M., Shahnaz, G., Rahdar, A., Díez-Pascual, A.M. A Multifunctional Polymeric Micelle for Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel by the Inhibition of the P-Glycoprotein Transporters. Nanomaterials, 2021; 11:2858. Impact Factor: 5.719.

14.   Rauf A, Tabish TA, Tehseen S, Sandhu MA, Pandey S, Shahnaz G, Rahdar A. Design of Mannose-Coated Rifampicin Nanoparticles Modulating the Immune Response and Rifampicin Induced Hepatotoxicity with Improved Oral Drug Delivery. Arab. J. Chem., 2021. Impact Factor: 5.16.

15.   Kiani MH, Ali S, Qadry A, Arshad R, Aslam A, Shahnaz G. Polyethylene imine conjugated supramolecular stereocomplexed nanomicelles for intracellular delivery of rifampicin against Mycobacterium bovis. Colloids Surf. B, 2021. Impact Factor: 5.26.

16.   Razzaq S, Rauf A, Tabish TA, Raza A, Shahnaz G. Papain decorated multi‐functional polymeric micelles for the targeted intracellular delivery of paclitaxel. Polymer for Advanced Technologies, 2021. Impact Factor: 3.66.

17.   Arshad R, Tabish TA, Kiani MH, Ibrahim MI, Shahnaz G, Rahdar A, Kang M, Pandey S. A Hyaluronic Acid Functionalized Self-NanoEmulsifying Drug Delivery System (SNEDDS) for Enhancement in Ciprofloxacin Targeted Delivery against Intracellular Infection. Nanomaterials, 2021 May; 14(4):387-406. Impact Factor: 5.06.

18.   Arshad A, Tabish TA, Naseem AA, Hassan AB, Hussain I, Hussain Shahzad, Shahnaz G. Development of poly-L-lysine multi-functionalized muco-penetrating self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) for improved solubilization and targeted delivery of ciprofloxacin against intracellular Salmonella typhi. J. Mol. Liq., 2021. Impact Factor: 6.16.

19.   Iqbal R, Yousaf MA, Sohail MF, Rehman M, Hussain SZ, Huma Z, Shahnaz G, Quereshi OS, Shahnaz G. Enhanced solubility and biopharmaceutical performance of atorvastatin and metformin via electrospun polyvinylpyrrolidone-hyaluronic acid composite nanoparticles. Eur. J. Pharm. Sci., 2021. Impact Factor: 3.616.

20.   Arshad R, Paul K, Sabir F, Rahdar A, Bilal M, Shahnaz G, Kyzas. A review of nanomaterial use for the diagnosis and therapy of Salmonella typhi. J. Mol. Struct., 2021. Impact Factor: 3.16.

21.   Jahan F, Zaman S, Arshad R, Tabish TA, Shahnaz G. Mapping the potential of thiolated pluronic-based nanomicelles for the safe and targeted delivery of vancomycin against staphylococcal blepharitis. J. Drug Deliv. Sci. Technol., 2021. Impact Factor: 3.96.

22.   Rauf A, Razzaq S, Tabish TA, Tehseen S, Sandhu MA, Shahnaz G. Investigating the intracellular bactericidal effects of rifampicin loaded S-protected thiomeric chitosan nanocargoes against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. J. Drug Deliv. Sci. Technol., 2020. Impact Factor: 3.96.

23. Fabrication and optimization of pH-sensitive mannose-anchored nanovehicle as a promising approach for macrophage uptake. Mukhtar A, Zeeshan M, Khan S, Shahnaz G, Khan SA, Sarwar HS, Pasha RA, Ali H. Applied Nanoscience, ISSN: 1388-0764, 2020, IF: 3.66.
24. Green synthesized selenium-doped zinc oxide nano antibiotics: Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of antimicrobial, nanotoxicity, and teratogenicity potential. Sohail MF, Rehman M, Hussain SZ, Huma Z, Shahnaz G, Qureshi OS, Khalid Q, Hussain I. J. Mater. Chem. B, ISBN: 2050-750X, IF: 4.889.
25. Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles by neem extract as multi-facet therapeutic agents. Sohail MF, Rehman M, Hussain SZ, Huma Z, Shahnaz G, Qureshi OS, Khalid Q, Hussain I. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol, ISSN: 1773-2247, 2020, IF: 6.3.
26. Amphotericin B-loaded polymeric nanoparticles for treatment of Leishmania infections. Saqib M, Bhatti S, Ahmad N, Ahmed N, Shahnaz G, Lebaz N. Nanomaterials, ISSN: 1743-5889, Feb 2020; 14(4):387-406, IF: 3.96.
27. Oral delivery and enhanced efficacy of antimonal drug through macrophage-guided multifunctional nanocargoes against visceral leishmaniasis. Sarwar HS, Varikuti S, Sohail MF, Sarwar MS, Satoskar AR, Shahnaz G. Eur J Pharm Biopharm, 79(1):171-80, IF: 5.06.
28. Synthesis and characterization of pre-activated thiolated chitosan nanoparticles for oral delivery of octreotide. Maria S, Sarwar HS, Sohail MF, Imran M, Salman O, Ahmad N, Iqbal A, Shahnaz G. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol, ISSN: 1773-2247, 2020, IF: 4.604.
29. Multi-functionalized nanocarriers targeting bacterial reservoirs to overcome challenges of multi-drug resistance. Kiani MH, Imran M, Raza A, Shahnaz G. DARU J. Pharm. Sci., ISSN: 1773-2247, 2020, IF: 3.96.
30. Formulation and evaluation of hyaluronic acid-based mucoadhesive self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) of tamoxifen for targeting breast cancer. Batool A, Khan R, Razzaq S, Nousheen K, Kiani MH, Shahnaz G. Int J Biol Macromol, ISSN: 1773-2247, 2020, IF: 3.117.
31. Fabrication and characterization of thiolated chitosan microneedle patch for transdermal delivery of tacrolimus. Ahmad Z, Khan MA, Siddiqui MI, Sarwar HS, Sohail MF, Rehman M, Hussain I, Shahnaz G. AAPS PharmSciTech, ISSN: 1530-9932, 2020; 21(2):60, IF: 3.2.
32. Design of enzyme-decorated mucopermeating nanocarriers for eradication of H. pylori infection. Zafar H, Kiani MH, Raza F, Rauf A, Chaudhery I, Ahmad NM, Akhtar S, Shahnaz G. J Nanoparticle Res., ISSN: 1388-0764, 2020, IF: 2.
33. Development and characterization of bioadhesive film embedded with lignocaine and calcium fluoride nanoparticles. Ghafar H, Khan MI, Sarwar HS, Yaqoob S, Hussain SZ, Tariq I, Madni AU, Shahnaz G, Sohail MF. AAPS PharmSciTech, ISSN: 1530-9932, 2020; 21(2):60, IF: 3.2.
34. Formulation and evaluation of novel thiolated intra-pocket periodontal composite membrane of doxycycline. Kanwal A, Iqbal A, Arshad R, Akhtar S, Razzaq S, Ahmad NM, Naz H, Shahnaz G. AAPS PharmSciTech, ISSN: 1530-9932, 2019; 20(8):325, IF: 3.2.
35. Development and evaluation of optimized thiolated chitosan proniosomal gel containing duloxetine for intranasal delivery. Khatoon M, Sohail MF, Shahnaz G, Rehman F, Din FU, Rehman AU. Journal name, Year (IF).
36. ZnO-NPs embedded biodegradable thiolated bandage for postoperative surgical site infection: In vitro and in vivo evaluation. Arshad R, Sohail MF, Sarwar HS, Saeed H, Ali I, Akhtar S, Hussain SZ, Afzal A, Jehan J, Rehman A, Shahnaz G. AAPS PharmSciTech, ISSN: 1530-9932, 2019; 18(4):1043-1055. Also published in PLOS ONE, ISSN: 1932-6203, 2019, IF: 3.2.
37. Drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for improved oral bioavailability of chlorpromazine: In vitro and in vivo evaluation. Baloch J, Sohail MF, Sarwar HS, Kiani MH, Khan GM, Jahan S, Rafay M, Chaudhry MT, Yasinzai M, Shahnaz G. Medicina (Kaunas), ISSN: 1010-660X, May 2019; 55(5), IF: 2.43.
38. Mannosylated thiolated paromomycin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles for the oral therapy of visceral leishmaniasis. Afzal I, Sarwar HS, Sohail MF, Varikuti S, Jahan S, Akhtar S, Yasinzai M, Satoskar AR, Shahnaz G. Nanomedicine (Lond), ISSN: 1743-5889, Feb 2019; 14(4):387-406, IF: 5.3.
39. Folate-functionalized thiomeric nanoparticles for enhanced docetaxel cytotoxicity and improved oral bioavailability. Sajjad M, Khan MI, Naveed S, Ijaz S, Qureshi OS, Raza SA, Shahnaz G, Sohail MF. AAPS PharmSciTech, ISSN: 1530-9932, Jan 2019; 20(2):81, IF: 3.2.
40. Evaluation of turmeric nanoparticles as an anti-gout agent: Modernization of a traditional drug. Kiyani MM, Sohail MF, Shahnaz G, Rehman H, Akhtar MF, Nawaz I, Mahmood T, Manzoor M, Bokhari SAI. Medicina (Kaunas), ISSN: 1010-660X, Jan 2019; 55(1), IF: 2.43.
41. Polymeric nanocapsules embedded with ultra-small silver nanoclusters for synergistic pharmacology and improved oral delivery of docetaxel. Sohail MF, Hussain SZ, Saeed H, Javed I, Sarwar HS, Nadhman A, Huma ZE, Rehman M, Jahan S, Hussain I, Shahnaz G. Sci Rep., ISSN: 2045-2322, Sep 2018; 8(1):13304, IF: 4.6.

42.   Sohail, M. F., Rehman, M., Sarwar, H. S., Naveed, S., Salman, O., Bukhari, N. I., Hussain, I., Webster, T. J., & Shahnaz, G. (2018). Advancements in the oral delivery of docetaxel: Challenges, current state-of-the-art, and future trends. International Journal of Nanomedicine, 13, 3145–3161. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S166087

43.   Sarwar, H. S., Sohail, M. F., Saljoughian, N., Rehman, A. U., Akhtar, S., Nadhman, A., Yasinzai, M., Gendelman, H. E., Satoskar, A. R., & Shahnaz, G. (2018). Design of mannosylated oral amphotericin B nanoformulation: Efficacy and safety in visceral leishmaniasis. Artificial Cells, Nanomedicine, and Biotechnology, 46(1), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/21691401.2018.1428242

44.   Sarwar, H. S., Ashraf, S., Akhtar, S., Sohail, M. F., Hussain, S. Z., Rafay, M., Yasinzai, M., Hussain, I., & Shahnaz, G. (2018). Mannosylated thiolated polyethylenimine nanoparticles for the enhanced efficacy of antimonial drug against leishmaniasis. Nanomedicine (London), 13(1), 25–41. https://doi.org/10.2217/nnm-2017-0210

45.   Ovais, M., Nadhman, A., Khalil, A. T., Raza, A., Khuda, F., Sohail, M. F., Islam, N. U., Sarwar, H. S., Shahnaz, G., Ahmad, I., Saravanan, M., & Shinwari, Z. K. (2017). Biosynthesized colloidal silver and gold nanoparticles as emerging leishmanicidal agents: An insight. Nanomedicine (London), 12(24), 2807–2819. https://doi.org/10.2217/nnm-2017-0275

46.   Sarwar, H. S., Akhtar, S., Sohail, M. F., Naveed, Z., Rafay, M., Nadhman, A., Yasinzai, M., & Shahnaz, G. (2017). Redox biology of Leishmania and macrophage targeted nanoparticles for therapy. Nanomedicine (London), 12(14), 1713–1725. https://doi.org/10.2217/nnm-2017-0071

47.   Sohail, M. F., Sarwar, H. S., Javed, I., Nadhman, A., Hussain, S. Z., Saeed, H., Raza, A., Bukhari, N. I., Hussain, I., & Shahnaz, G. (2017). Cell to rodent: Toxicological profiling of folate grafted thiomer enveloped nanoliposomes. Toxicological Research, 6, 814–821. https://doi.org/10.1039/C7TX00042A

48.   Shahnaz, G., Edagwa, B. J., McMillan, J., Akhtar, S., Raza, A., Qureshi, N. A., Yasinzai, M., & Gendelman, H. E. (2017). Development of mannose-anchored thiolated amphotericin B nanocarriers for treatment of visceral leishmaniasis. Nanomedicine (London), 12(2), 99–115. https://doi.org/10.2217/nnm-2016-0216

49.   Naz, K., Shahnaz, G., Ahmed, N., Qureshi, N. A., Sarwar, H. S., Imran, M., & Khan, G. M. (2017). Formulation and in vitro characterization of thiolated buccoadhesive film of fluconazole. AAPS PharmSciTech, 18(4), 1043–1055. https://doi.org/10.1208/s12249-016-0612-5

50.   Khan, H., Nadhman, A., Azam, S. S., Anees, M., Khan, I., Ullah, I., Sohail, M. F., Shahnaz, G., & Yasinzai, M. (2017). In-vitro antileishmanial potential of peptide drug hirudin. Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 89(1), 67–73. https://doi.org/10.1111/cbdd.12854

51.   Tahir, A. H., Tanveer, M., Ahmed, A., Arshad, A., & Shahnaz, G. (2016). Rise of single organopathy theory from Ayurveda system: A short report from Pakistan’s perspective. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(12), 12–19.

52.   Sohail, M. F., Javed, I., Hussain, S. Z., Sarwar, H. S., Akhtar, S., Nadhman, A., Batool, S., Bukhari, N. I., Saleem, R. S. Z., Hussain, I., & Shahnaz, G. (2016). Folate grafted thiolated chitosan enveloped nanoliposomes with enhanced oral bioavailability and anticancer activity of docetaxel. Journal of Materials Chemistry B, 4, 6240–6248. https://doi.org/10.1039/C6TB01497A

53.   Nadhman, A., Khan, M. I., Nazir, S., Khan, M., Shahnaz, G., Raza, A., Shams, D. F., & Yasinzai, M. (2016). Annihilation of Leishmania by daylight responsive ZnO nanoparticles: A temporal relationship of reactive oxygen species-induced lipid and protein oxidation. International Journal of Nanomedicine, 11, 2451–2461. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S106546

54.   Rauf, M. K., Shaheen, U., Asghar, F., Badshah, A., Nadhman, A., Azam, S., Ali, M. I., Shahnaz, G., & Yasinzai, M. (2016). Antileishmanial, DNA interaction, and docking studies of some ferrocene-based heteroleptic pentavalent antimonials. Archiv der Pharmazie (Weinheim), 349(1), 50–62. https://doi.org/10.1002/ardp.201500258

55.     Dünnhaupt, S., Barthelmes, J., Köllner, S., Sakloetsakun, D., Shahnaz, G., Düregger, A., & Bernkop-Schnürch, A. (2015). Thiolated nanocarriers for oral delivery of hydrophilic macromolecular drugs. Carbohydrate Polymers, 117, 577–584. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.10.035

56.   Javed, I., Hussain, S. Z., Ullah, I., Khan, I., Ateeq, M., Shahnaz, G., Rehman, H., Razi, M. T., Shah, M. R., & Hussain, I. (2015). Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of lecithin-based nanocarriers for the enhanced pharmacological and oral pharmacokinetic profile of amphotericin B. Journal of Materials Chemistry B, 3(42), 8359–8365. https://doi.org/10.1039/C5TB00942A

57.   Nadhman, A., Nazir, S., Khan, M. I., Arooj, S., Bakhtiar, M., Shahnaz, G., & Yasinzai, M. (2014). PEGylated silver doped zinc oxide nanoparticles as novel photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy against Leishmania. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 77, 230–238. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2014.09.018

58.    Yasinzai, M., Khan, M., Nadhman, A., & Shahnaz, G. (2013). Drug resistance in leishmaniasis: Current drug-delivery systems and future perspectives. Future Medicinal Chemistry, 5(15), 1877–1888. https://doi.org/10.4155/fmc.13.139

59.   Development and in vitro evaluation of slippery nanoparticles for enhanced diffusion through native mucus Laffleur F, Hintzen F, Shahnaz G, Rahmat D, Leithner K, Bernkop-Schnürch A.
Nanomedicine (Lond.) 2014; 9(3):387-96. Impact Factor: 4.727

60.   Design and in vitro evaluation of a novel polymeric excipient for buccal applications
Laffleur F, Shahnaz G, Islambulchilar Z, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Future Med Chem. 2013; 5(5):511-22. Impact Factor: 3.556

61.   Development of thiolated poly(acrylic acid) microparticles for the nasal administration of exenatide Millotti G, Vetter A, Leithner K, Sarti F, Shahnaz G, Augustijns P, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2014; 40(12):1677-82.
Impact Factor: 2.101

62.   Organotin(IV) complexes of carboxylate derivative as potential chemotherapeutic agents against Leishmania Qureshi QAH, Nadhman A, Sirajuddin M, Shahnaz G, Ali S, Shah A, Yasinzai M. Inorganica Chimica Acta 2014; 423(Part B):220-228. Impact Factor: 2.064

63.   Efficient MRI labeling of endothelial progenitor cells: design of thiolated surface stabilized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles Shahnaz G, Kremser C, Reinisch A, Vetter A, Laffleur F, Rahmat D, Iqbal J, Dünnhaupt S, Salvenmoser W, Tessadri R, Griesser U, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Eur J Pharm Biopharm. 2013; 85(3 Pt A):346-55. Impact Factor: 4.159

64.   Thiolated hydroxyethyl cellulose: design and in vitro evaluation of mucoadhesive and permeation enhancing nanoparticles Rahmat D, Müller C, Barthelmes J, Shahnaz G, Martien R, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Eur J Pharm Biopharm. 2013; 83(2):149-55. Impact Factor: 4.159

65.   Enzymatic degradation of thiolated chitosan
Laffleur F, Hintzen F, Rahmat D, Shahnaz G, Millotti G, Bernkop-Schnürch A.
Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2013; 39(10):1531-9. Impact Factor: 2.101

66.   HEC-cystamine particles: influence of particle size, zeta potential, morphology and sulfhydryl groups on permeation enhancing properties
Rahmat D, Müller C, Shahnaz G, Leithner K, Laffleur F, Khan MI, Martien R, Bernkop Schnürch A. Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2013; 39(9):1338-45. Impact Factor: 2.101

67.   Thiomers: influence of molar mass on in situ gelling properties
Hintzen F, Laffleur F, Sarti F, Shahnaz G, Bernkop-Schnürch. Int J Pharm. 2012; 436(1-2):120-6. Impact Factor: 3.694

68.   Thiolated chitosan nanoparticles for the nasal administration of leuprolide: bioavailability and pharmacokinetic characterization
Shahnaz G, Vetter A, Barthelmes J, Rahmat D, Laffleur F, Iqbal J, Perera G, Schlocker W, Dünnhaupt S, Augustijns P, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Int J Pharm. 2012; 428(1-2):164-7 Impact Factor: 3.694

69.   Synergistic effects of conjugating cell penetrating peptides and thiomers on non-viral transfection efficiency Rahmat D, Khan MI, Shahnaz G, Sakloetsakun D, Perera G, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Biomaterials 2012; 33(7):2321-6. Impact Factor: 8.402

70.   Preactivated thiomers as mucoadhesive polymers for drug delivery Iqbal J, Shahnaz G, Dünnhaupt S, Müller C, Hintzen F, Bernkop-Schnürch A. Biomaterials 2012; 33(5):1528-35. Impact Factor: 8.402

71.   HEC-cysteamine conjugates: influence of degree of thiolation on efflux pump inhibitory and permeation enhancing properties
Rahmat D, Sakloetsakun D, Shahnaz G, Sarti F, Laffleur F, Bernkop-Schnürch A.
Int J Pharm. 2012; 422(1-2):40-6. Impact Factor: 3.694

72.   Development and in vivo characterization of a novel peptide drug delivery system providing extended plasma half-life
Shahnaz G, Iqbal J, Rahmat D, Perera G, Laffleur F, Rossi D, Bernkop-Schnürch A.
J Control Release 2012; 157(3):375-82. Impact Factor: 7.786

73.   Sarti, F., Iqbal, J., Müller, C., Shahnaz, G., Rahmat, D., & Bernkop-Schnürch, A. (2012). Poly(acrylic acid)-cysteine for oral vitamin B12 delivery. Analytical Biochemistry, 420(1), 13–19.

74.   Iqbal, J., Shahnaz, G., Perera, G., Hintzen, F., Sarti, F., & Bernkop-Schnürch, A. (2012). Thiolated chitosan: Development and in vivo evaluation of an oral delivery system for leuprolide. European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 80(1), 95–102.

75.   Rahmat, D., Sakloetsakun, D., Shahnaz, G., Perera, G., Kaindl, R., & Bernkop-Schnürch, A. (2011). Design and synthesis of a novel cationic thiolated polymer. International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 411(1–2), 10–17.

76.   Shahnaz, G., Hartl, M., Barthelmes, J., Leithner, K., Sarti, F., Hintzen, F., Rahmat, D., Salvenmoser, W., & Bernkop-Schnürch, A. (2011). Uptake of phenothiazines by the harvested chylomicrons ex vivo model: Influence of self-nanoemulsifying formulation design. European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 79(1), 171–180.

77.   Murtaza, G., Ahmad, M., & Shahnaz, G. (2010). Microencapsulation of diclofenac sodium by non-solvent addition technique. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 9(2), 187–195.

78.   Shahnaz, G., Perera, G., Sakloetsakun, D., Rahmat, D., & Bernkop-Schnürch, A. (2010). Synthesis, characterization, mucoadhesion, and biocompatibility of thiolated carboxymethyl dextran-cysteine conjugate. Journal of Controlled Release, 144(1), 32–38. 

1.  

   1)            Comparative Bioavailability & Pharmacokinetic Characterization

   As the Principal Investigator, I led a cutting-edge research project exploring the potential of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) to optimize the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of phenothiazines. My role encompassed designing and executing experiments, analyzing pharmacological data, and developing formulations to enhance drug solubility and absorption. The project significantly advanced the field of drug delivery, providing novel insights into improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects of phenothiazine-based treatments. This innovative approach holds transformative potential for developing more efficient, patient-centric pharmaceutical therapies. (Funded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan 2012) 

   2)            Monocyte-macrophage as targeted drug depots for long-acting anti-microbial medicines.

   This project, which earned the prestigious UNESCO-L’Oréal competitive award, focuses on leveraging monocyte-macrophage cells as targeted drug depots for the development of long-acting anti-microbial medicines. The aim is to utilize the natural trafficking and phagocytic properties of monocytes and macrophages to deliver antimicrobial agents directly to infected tissues, providing sustained release and enhanced therapeutic effects. By utilizing these immune cells as drug carriers, the project offers a novel approach to combating infections, improving patient compliance, and reducing the need for frequent dosing. As the recipient of the internal UNESCO-L’Oréal award, I led the research efforts, securing funding, and guiding the project to successful completion. (Funded by the UNESCO- L’Oréal 2014 to 2016)

   3)            Development and evaluation of mannose-anchored thiolated nanocarriers for leishmaniasis therapy

   The development of mannose-anchored thiolated nanocarriers aims to enhance leishmaniasis therapy by targeting CLR-type receptors on macrophages. The ligands, specifically designed to bind to C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), facilitate the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents directly to infected cells, overcoming the challenge of non-specific drug distribution. By using thiolated nanocarriers, the system ensures prolonged retention, enhanced cellular uptake, and controlled release of the drug. This receptor-targeted approach not only improves the therapeutic efficacy but also reduces systemic toxicity, offering a promising solution for more effective and safer treatments against leishmaniasis, which is notoriously difficult to treat with conventional therapies. (Funded by the COMSTECH-TWAS 2016 to 2017) 

   4)            Synthesis and characterization of a disulfide cross-linked multifunctional in situ gelling cargo for oral peptide drug delivery

   As Principal Investigator, I secured funding for the project focused on the synthesis and characterization of a disulfide cross-linked multifunctional in situ gelling cargo for oral peptide drug delivery. The aim was to enhance the stability, bioavailability, and controlled release of peptides, which are typically challenging for oral administration due to enzymatic degradation and poor absorption. By developing a disulfide cross-linked system, the project enables targeted and sustained delivery of peptides, improving therapeutic outcomes. This breakthrough in macromolecule-based drug delivery has significant potential in transforming peptide therapeutics, offering a non-invasive, effective alternative for treating a range of diseases. (Funded by the Pakistan Academy of Sciences 2016-2018) 

   5)            Macrophage Targeted Thiolated Nanocarriers: Next Generation of Antimicrobial Drug Development

   Through the funding of this project, we developed advanced lab facilities for the synthesis of thiolated nanocarriers targeting macrophages, addressing the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance to conventional antibiotics. These nanocarriers are engineered to enhance drug delivery, ensuring targeted release directly at infection sites, improving treatment efficacy, and reducing systemic side effects. This innovative approach opens new avenues for developing next-generation antimicrobial drugs. Additionally, several student theses were supported, fostering academic growth and research experience in nanomaterials and drug delivery systems. The project not only advanced scientific knowledge but also contributed to training the next generation of researchers in the field. (Funded the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan 2017-2020) 

   6)            Microneedle patch precise for treatment of skin cancer: Melanoma

   This novel formulation approach focuses on developing a microneedle patch for the precise treatment of skin cancer, specifically melanoma. The microneedle patch is designed to deliver therapeutic agents directly into the skin layers, enabling targeted drug delivery with minimal invasiveness. This approach enhances treatment efficacy while reducing systemic side effects, offering a promising alternative to traditional methods like injections or topical creams. As co-Principal Investigator, I contributed to the formulation design, optimized microneedle properties, and led preclinical evaluation studies. My role also involved coordinating research activities and ensuring the integration of cutting-edge technologies to improve melanoma treatment outcomes. (Funded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan 2018 -2021)

    

   7)            Novel thermoresponsive lipid nanoparticles (TLN) for combination thermotherapy and chemotherapy of cancer

   This project focuses on developing novel thermoresponsive lipid nanoparticles (TLN) for combining thermotherapy and chemotherapy in cancer treatment. The TLN is designed to respond to localized temperature changes, enhancing the targeted delivery and controlled release of chemotherapeutic agents directly at tumor sites. By integrating thermoresponsive properties, these nanoparticles enable precise activation of the therapeutic payload, improving the efficacy of chemotherapy while minimizing off-target effects. The combination of hyperthermia and chemotherapy offers a synergistic approach to overcoming cancer resistance mechanisms, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment with enhanced therapeutic outcomes and reduced systemic toxicity.  (Funded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan 2022-2025)

    

   8)            Exploring Dry Powders Inhaler in the Fight against Multi-Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis: Formulation Evaluation

   The formulation development of dry powder inhalers (DPIs) aims to enhance drug delivery for combating multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). By optimizing the physicochemical properties of the powder, including particle size, flowability, and stability, the formulation ensures efficient aerosolization and deep lung deposition. The formulation is engineered to release high concentrations of antimicrobials directly to the site of infection, improving bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes. DPI technology minimizes systemic exposure, enhancing patient compliance and reducing side effects. This innovative approach presents a promising strategy to overcome MDR-TB, addressing a critical challenge in the global fight against resistant bacterial strains. (Funded by the Pakistan Academy of Sciences 2024-2025)