In vivo dissolution in colon of poorly soluble drug substances

Research scientist: Mingjun Wu, MSc
Principle investigator: Professor Christel Bergström, Department of Pharmacy, Uppsala University

Scientific and industrial context: Limited fluid available in colon, the presence of mucus, colonic peristalsis, and the role microbiome could influence the drug dissolution in colon, resulting in inefficient colonic absorption. To date, we are still missing in vitro models that can effectively predict drug colonic release in vivo.

Aim: To improve the understanding of the colonic dissolution of poorly water-soluble compounds by investigating the effect of different factors such as hydrodynamic, low fluid volume and binding to/degradation by bacteria on dissolution in colon, as well as to develop physiologically relevant in silico and in vitro models of colonic dissolution.

Outcome: The project will contribute to the understanding of factors that could influence drug dissolution in colon. In vitro and in silico models will be developed to predict the absorption in colon of poorly water-soluble drugs. The generated knowledge is expected to guide the design of successful dosage forms for efficient colonic release and absorption.