Alessandro Grattoni, Ph.D.
Houston Methodist
Principal Investigator
NIH NIAID R24 FUNDED CENTER
The Center for the Dissemination of Ultra-Long-Acting Antiretroviral Release Technology (DART)
Transforming preclinical research with the Nanofluidic Drug Delivery Implant (NanoDDI), a subcutaneous implant for autonomous drug administration.
Our Mission
To facilitate the dissemination of the NanoDDI platform as a standardized research tool. We enable the scientific community to achieve consistent, long-term antiretroviral delivery in large preclinical models, enhancing data quality while significantly reducing operational burdens.
The NanoDDI Platform
A refillable subcutaneous implant engineered for precise, autonomous long-acting delivery.
Sustained Drug Release
Biocompatible silicon nanochannel membranes ensure zero-order release kinetics. No pumps, batteries, or complex hardware needed.
Transcutaneous Refilling
Implant refill ports allow for rapid, minimally invasive drug replenishment or replacement in situ. Extend study timelines indefinitely without device removal or replacement.
Biocompatible Design
Constructed from medical-grade and biocompatible materials, the NanoDDI is safe for long-term in vivo performance.
Why Switch to NanoDDI?
Improved Subject Welfare
Eliminates the stress of repeated oral gavage or injections. Once implanted subcutaneously, the device operates autonomously, significantly reducing handling and physiological stress.
No Repeated Administration
Move away from labor-intensive dosing regimens. The “set and forget” or periodically refilled nature of NanoDDI
frees up valuable researcher time and facility resources.
Consistent Pharmacokinetics Profiles
Achieve stable plasma drug concentrations within the therapeutic window, avoiding the “peaks and troughs”
associated with conventional bolus dosing.
Research Cost Comparison
Comparison based on a standard 12-month dosing study (24 subjects).
Conventional Weekly IV Dosing
$241,000
NanoDDI Implementation
$49,000
-90% Cost Reduction
*Estimates include staffing, sedation, and consumables. NanoDDI reduces recurring procedural costs to nearly zero after implantation.
Program Services
Comprehensive support for your research integration.
Consultation
Expert assistance in defining study design and execution tailored to your specific research goals.
Training and Support
Access to hands-on workshops, detailed video protocols (loading, implantation, refilling), and on-site support from specialized technicians.
Customizable Production
Robust production capacity with customizable implant form factor to fit your needs. Rigorous quality control to ensure consistent release kinetics and device performance.
Program Leadership
Ying Xuan Chua, Ph.D.
Houston Methodist
Multi-PI
Peter Anderson, Ph.D.
U. Colorado - Denver
Pilot Pharmacokinetics Lead
Jonah Sacha, Ph.D.
OHSU NHP Center (ONPRC)
Pilot Preclinical Study Lead
Melissa de la Garza, DVM
MD Anderson Michale Keeling NHP Center (KCCMR)
Veterinary Advisor
Lauren Drew Martin, DVM
OHSU NHP Center (ONPRC)
Veterinary Advisor
Charles Dobard, Ph.D.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Scientific Veterinary Advisor
Events & outreach
Feb 21, 2026 · 09:00
Long-Acting/Extended Release (LA/ER) Antiretroviral Research Resource Program (LEAP) Investigator Meeting and Annual Workshop 2026: Products, Access, and Implementation
Grand Hyatt, 1750 Welton St, Denver, CO 80202
May 21, 2026 · 09:50
2nd International Workshop On Long Acting Anti-Infectives (LAAI) 2026
Philadelphia, PA
Session 1: Long-Acting Platforms
Collaborations Nationwide
The DART Resource Program is established as a Center to share the NanoDDI platform. Investigators across the country can access NanoDDI technology and protocols, and receive research study support for ultra-long-acting antiretroviral delivery in preclinical models.
We welcome collaborations from academic centers, research facilities, and translational partners interested in preclinical long-acting strategies. Our role is to help you integrate the implant platform into your scientific pipeline.
Collaborate with us
If you are considering incorporating a long-acting implant for antiretroviral HIV-related study in large preclinical models, please contact us using the form below.