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This project explores a novel technology for acute seizure treatment using micromotors (MMs)—tiny, self-propelled particles designed to carry drugs deep into the nasal cavity for rapid and targeted delivery. Current seizure medications often suffer from delayed onset and limited brain penetration, especially when administered rectally or intravenously. This project proposes using biodegradable MMs in a nasal spray formulation that activates upon contact with nasal moisture. 

Powered by safe chemical reactions, these MMs will swim through nasal mucus and deliver drugs directly to the brain regions involved in seizures, helping to stop seizures faster with lower doses and fewer side effects.Although MMs have been explored for neural regeneration using external fields, they have never been studied via the nasal route or for seizure therapy. This is the first attempt to use self-propelled MMs to deliver drugs through the nose directly to brain pathways involved in seizures, without needing any outside activation. 

The project will focus on MM design, in vitro and ex vivo testing, and validation in the epilepsy mouse model. If successful, it could redefine nose-to-brain delivery and open new therapeutic possibilities for CNS diseases. I will lead the project as the principal investigator, building on nine years of experience in MM development. Associate Professor Line Hagner Nielsen, Group leader of the Pharmaceutical Technology Group, will contribute as a collaborator in discussions on drug formulation strategies, nasal delivery, and drug-device compatibility. Associate Prof. Mie Kristensen from the University of Copenhagen is also a collaborator. She is an expert in drug delivery to the brain, among others, also nose-to-brain delivery. However, I will remain the clear driver of the project, coordinate all phases, and ensure alignment with its scientific goals.