Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam

Major Field of Specialization: My specialization centers on the development of advanced transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) using biocompatible ionic liquids (ILs) and hybrid nanostructures for targeted therapies in oncology and diabetes management. I design and evaluate platforms such as IL-in-oil (IL/O) microemulsions, solid-in-oil nanoparticles, and polymer composites to enhance drug solubility, skin permeation, and therapeutic efficacy. A core focus of my research is synthesizing choline-based ILs from GRAS components such as amino acids, carboxylic acids, and fatty acids. These ILs serve as permeation enhancers and carriers for poorly soluble drugs such as paclitaxel, methotrexate, OVA, acyclovir, and insulin. I formulate IL/O microemulsions and solid-in-oil systems that enable non-invasive delivery of these agents, optimizing physicochemical properties through DLS, HPLC, and rheological analysis. For diabetes treatment, I explore transdermal insulin delivery using IL-based systems that bypass gastrointestinal degradation and improve patient compliance. These formulations are engineered to maintain insulin bioactivity, enhance skin permeation, and provide sustained-release profiles. Polymer composites incorporating ILs are also developed to create flexible, adhesive patches suitable for chronic use. Mechanistic studies using confocal microscopy, DSC, and ATR-FTIR reveal IL–skin interactions and barrier modulation. In vivo evaluations in tumor-bearing and diabetic murine models assess therapeutic outcomes, including modulation of cytokines, immune cell activation, and glycemic control. In parallel with my research, I actively contribute to science education by developing inclusive, multimodal curricula in biochemical engineering and drug delivery for younger learners. Overall, my field integrates ionic liquid chemistry, TDDS, IL/O microemulsions, solid-in-oil nanoparticles, polymer composites, and translational strategies for cancer and diabetes care, bridging cutting-edge research with real-world therapeutic impact.

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