Zaid

This doctoral research focused on developing novel antiviral nanomedicine strategies targeting influenza virus infections. The project centred on the conjugation of a potent antiviral peptide (FluPep) to gold and silver nanoparticles to enhance its therapeutic efficacy. Key objectives included optimising nanoparticle synthesis and functionalisation, characterising conjugates using advanced biochemical and spectroscopic techniques, and evaluating antiviral activity in vitro using MDCK cell cultures.

The study demonstrated that nanoparticle–peptide conjugates significantly improved antiviral potency compared to the free peptide, likely due to increased stability and multivalent interactions. Mechanistic insights were gained through viral replication assays, cytotoxicity testing, and reverse genetics approaches. The work contributed to a deeper understanding of peptide-based nanotherapies and their potential in combating influenza and other viral infections.