The Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation will publish a special issue in January 2027 that highlights significant advancements in drug formulation science, focusing specifically on the role of particle engineering in developing real-world medicines. Titled “Translational Advances in Pharmaceutical Dosage Form Development Based on Particle Engineering and Formulation Science,” the issue aims to gather contributions that explore effective laboratory-scale techniques and their transition into practical applications. Manuscripts are due by June 30, 2026, and the issue will be led by guest editors from South Korea: Sung-Joo Hwang of Yonsei University, Min-Soo Kim of Pusan National University, and Heejun Park of Duksung Women’s University.
The special issue seeks to emphasize the vital relationship between drug molecules and their dosage forms. Many newly discovered compounds face challenges such as limited water solubility, chemical instability, and poor absorption. Particle engineering tackles these issues by modifying factors like crystal form, particle size, surface properties, and morphology to enhance a drug’s solubility, stability, and bioavailability. The editors encourage submissions that focus on innovative approaches to overcoming these barriers, highlighting their importance in contemporary dosage form design.
Pharmaceutical studies indicate that an extensive number of new chemical entities, particularly those identified through high-throughput screening, belong to classes in the Biopharmaceutics Classification System that are characterized by poor aqueous solubility. Techniques such as micronization and nanocrystal formation have been developed to address these challenges, though it remains essential to manage the stability of these engineered forms, which are often susceptible to recrystallization and instability.
The scope of the issue includes advanced formulation strategies across various routes of administration, including oral, injectable, inhalable, and transdermal systems. Each delivery method presents its unique engineering challenges, such as the need for oral formulations to withstand gastric conditions or ensuring sterility in injectables. The editors aim to encompass the breadth of particle engineering’s impact across all these applications, emphasizing its role as a unifying language in pharmaceutical technology.
Another key focus is on translational formulation science and the scale-up of drug products. The editors acknowledge that formulations effective in small-scale beakers may perform poorly when scaled up for manufacturing due to variations in mixing, heat transfer, and other factors. They urge contributors to present models and characterizations that anticipate these shifts, ensuring consistent product quality.
The issue will also explore emerging manufacturing technologies, such as continuous manufacturing and additive manufacturing, which promise to improve process control and adapt production volumes quickly. These innovations are increasingly being recognized by regulators, demonstrating a shift towards more efficient production methodologies. The editors express a desire to incorporate not only theoretical laboratory advancements but also evidence of practical applications in commercial settings.
The urgent need for innovation in drug formulation is underscored in the context of evolving therapies, including biologics and mRNA-based treatments. With the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into formulation development, researchers are prompted to explore new intersections between engineering and pharmaceutical science.
This special issue invites contributions from a variety of stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry, including academic researchers and professionals from pharmaceutical companies. By focusing on these areas, the Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation and its editors aim to foster advancements that will enhance the efficacy and reliability of future therapeutic products.
