We work on controlled drug release and delivery using modern methods and materials. We are studying bio- and nanomaterials such as liposomes and cellulose nanofibers, the use of new tools to track drug molecules and carriers, and tailored materials for pharmaceutical applications. We are particularly interested in using light to both monitor nanomaterial behaviour and to trigger e.g. drug release processes. We work in close collaboration with the Supramolecular chemistry of bio- and nanomaterials group at Tampere University, as well as research groups in University of Eastern Finland and Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences.
Timo has a background in both chemistry and pharmaceutical research. He got his PhD from Helsinki University of Technology (now Aalto University) in 2007 and has since concentrated on studying nanomaterials for drug delivery. He is a Professor of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology at the Faculty of Pharmacy since 2019 and a former Professor of Chemistry at Tampere University (2016-2020). Prof. Laaksonen has experience in fundamental physical chemistry, pharmaceutical technology, various nanomaterials, and has in particular look at how to use nanocellulose in drug release formulations. Recent work has concentrated on biophotonics, the use of advanced light-triggered reactions for drug release, and new method development such as the use of fluorescence life-time microscopy for pharmaceutical sample analysis.
Tatu got his PhD in Pharmacy from University of Helsinki in 2016. He works on drug delivery to challenging target sites, for example posterior segment of the eye, tumors and central nervous system. Tatu has diverse international research background through working in Santen Pharmaceuticals in Japan as well as Kyoto University and Tokyo University of Pharmacy & Life Sciences. He holds a shared position in University of Helsinki and University of Eastern Finland. The current focus of his research is the utilization of nanoparticle drug delivery systems for targeted treatment of diseases with biomacromolecules. With the help of his international network of collaborators, the work continues to progress the field towards better medications.