Title:"Antiviral PK/PD Studies in the CNS: Bench to Bed"

Sean N. Avedissian, Associate Professor

University of Nebraska Medical Center, Dept of Pharmacy Practice and Science
 

Hosts: Jared Anderson and Robbyn Anand

Abstract: Antiviral penetration into the central nervous system (CNS) remains a critical barrier to achieving viral eradication and preventing long-term neurologic sequelae. Research in the Avedissian Laboratory integrates pre-clinical modeling, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), and translational approaches to characterize drug exposure within the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brain. Using advanced in vitro microfluidic blood–brain barrier (BBB) systems and complementary in vivo models, these studies quantify CNS drug distribution and apply in silico PK modeling to bridge pre-clinical findings with clinical data. This seminar will outline the translational framework supporting ongoing and future NIH-funded investigations, with a focus  aimed at optimizing antiviral and antimicrobial dosing strategies in sanctuary compartments such as the CNS. By linking pre-clinical PK/PD outcomes to biomarkers of antiviral activity, this work establishes a platform to evaluate candidate therapies for emerging infections and to inform precision dosing in vulnerable populations.

Bio: Sean N. Avedissian, PharmD, MSc, PhD is an Associate Professor in the UNMC Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science. His research centers on pharmacokinetic modeling of antibiotics and antiviral agents in special populations, including individuals with HIV and critically ill patients, with an emphasis on mathematical modeling in clinical and preclinical settings.