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Prof. Diky highlighted a critical gap between a drug’s potential and its actual effectiveness in the human body. He emphasized that therapeutic success is not solely determined by the potency of the active substance, but by its ability to reach the correct target, in the right dose, and at the right time.

He explained that conventional drug delivery systems—such as tablets, syrups, or ointments—often fail to meet these three criteria, limiting their therapeutic efficacy. This shortfall has prompted the exploration of nanotechnology as a new generation of drug carriers designed to optimize treatment efficiency.

Nanoparticle-Based Drug Delivery Systems

Prof. Diky explained that nanoparticle-based delivery systems combine science and engineering at the nanometer scale to create effective drug carriers. These systems are designed with two primary functions: delivering drug molecules to specific target sites and protecting them from degradation caused by unstable physiological conditions in the body, such as enzyme exposure or extreme pH.

Key advantages of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems include:

1. Controlled Release: Gradual drug release according to specific timing and targeted location;

2. Targeted Delivery: Minimizing damage to healthy tissues by directly targeting diseased cells;

3. Drug Protection: Preserving drug molecules intact until they reach the target;

4. Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas: Penetrating biological barriers that conventional drugs cannot, such as the blood-brain barrier.

Challenges Behind Nanotechnology’s Potential

Despite its promise, the journey of nanoparticles toward their target is complex. The first challenge is surviving early elimination from the bloodstream, where the body's immune system—especially the Mononuclear Phagocyte System (MPS)—efficiently detects and clears foreign particles before they can reach their destination. Even if nanoparticles reach the target site, they must then undergo internalization and release the active compound within the target cell. A further challenge arises post-internalization, where nanoparticles must escape endosomal compartments to avoid degradation. In cancer treatment, for example, target cells may activate a Multidrug Resistance (MDR) mechanism, which actively pumps drugs out of the cell, rendering the treatment ineffective.

Related Research and Innovations

To address these challenges, Prof. Diky presented a series of innovative studies developed with his research team. These studies focus on designing nanoparticles based on in-depth understanding of biological, cellular, and molecular mechanisms. One highlighted project involved the use of sodium oleate, a fatty acid derivative, to coat liposomal nanoparticles. This simple modification significantly enhanced the nanoparticles’ ability to escape endosomes, thus efficiently delivering the anticancer drug simvastatin to breast cancer cells.

"Fundamentally, we successfully elucidated the sodium oleate-mediated membrane fusion mechanism within endosomes. Our laboratory results show that sodium oleate has a high fusion capacity with endosomal membranes," he explained.

In addition to focusing on efficacy, his research also emphasizes safety through a Safe-by-Design approach. Prof. Diky and his team have conducted comprehensive nanotoxicity evaluations to ensure that their drug delivery systems are not only effective but also safe for patients. The oration concluded with an optimistic message that Indonesian nanotechnology innovation is ready to make a meaningful contribution to global healthcare.

Profile of Prof. Diky Mudhakir

Beyond his dedication to pharmaceutical science, Prof. Diky is an academic born in Bandung who earned his Bachelor’s, Professional, and Master’s degrees from ITB before pursuing his Ph.D. at Hokkaido University, Japan. His career at ITB includes several strategic positions, such as Head of the Undergraduate Pharmacy Program (2012–2017) and Head of ITB Health Services Unit (2020–2025). Appointed as a Professor in the field of Drug Delivery on December 1, 2024, he currently serves as Dean of the School of Pharmacy at ITB. Outside of his academic and professional commitments, Prof. Diky enjoys traveling and eco-tourism.