nano-ASTADopa is a collaborative research initiative with Dr. Nadja Henke to create a nanoformulated astaxanthin–polydopamine nanoformulation that improves stability, bioavailability, and controlled release of a natural compound for chronic inflammatory disease therapy—initially focused on multiple sclerosis (MS), which affects women at roughly three times the rate of men. 

Current MS medications are expensive, often have severe side effects, and limit patient adherence and access to care, disproportionately worsening outcomes for underserved communities. By combining microbial-based astaxanthin with advanced materials engineering, this project aims to develop a safer, more cost-effective, and socially impactful disease-modifying therapy for MS and beyond.