Innovation

Harnessing PRINT

"I think at the end of the day, we learn the most from those we have the least in common with."

"I think at the end of the day, we learn the most from those we have the least in common with."

“I think at the end of the day, we learn the most from those we have the least in common with. If you’re really trying to maximize learning and maximize the opportunities for you to have an impact, you need to talk to other people that are outside your field so that you can see how your craft can be applied elsewhere.”

— Joe DeSimone, Ph.D.
Chancellor’s Eminent Professor and William R. Kenan Jr. Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, UNC College of Arts & Sciences

In conjunction with the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, the DeSimone group is focused on designing and evaluating novel nanomedicines for cancer therapy. PRINT (Particle Replication in Non-wetting Templates) nanoparticles can be fabricated into numerous shapes and sizes, including nano-cylinders, nano-rods or long filamentous “worm-like” nanoparticles. The unique control over size and shape leads to a variety of nano-materials that can accumulate in specific tissues or diseased sites. The manipulation of these physical properties can increase the therapeutic index of a drug, reduce side effects and improve patient compliance. This technology is the basis for the Carolina Center for Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence and Liquidia Technologies, a publicly traded, North Carolina-based company cofounded by DeSimone.

Example of 3D printing from Carbon

Similarly, DeSimone is cofounder and chief executive officer of Carbon, the 3D printing unicorn. Carbon’s successful partnerships with companies such as Adidas, Dentsply Sirona, Johnson & Johnson and Riddell underscore the diversity of applications made possible by Carbon’s game-changing technology.

Readers also viewed...

A phone screen with social media apps is shown
Innovation

Tackling Crisis of Teens and Screens

New center providing groundbreaking research and public awareness

A physician sits with her arms on a desk
Health

STEPPS to Address Physician Stress

New recommendations seek to ameliorate stress among health care workers

Chris Atack and Duane Hampton in police uniforms pose at the UNC School of Government.
Innovation

A Mission for Public Service

A UNC School of Government program supports leadership in public service.