Purdue researchers are bringing new freeze-drying methods to market, potentially slashing transportation costs

This article sheds light on Purdue University's efforts to improve the freeze-drying process for pharmaceuticals. It emphasizes the challenges of the current freeze-drying process and how Purdue is working closely with industry members to respond to these challenges. Purdue researchers, led by Alina Alexeenko, are on the verge of achieving a breakthrough that could significantly impact vaccine manufacturing. 

The article highlights the technology of utilizing microwave energy for the heating phase. The startup LyoWave Inc., founded by Alina Alexeenko, is collaborating with Purdue Innovates Office of Technology Commercialization to bring this new technology to the market. 

Industry giants, Merck and IMA Life North America are participating in this microwave freeze dry project as part of a grant awarded by NIIMBL through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to address bottlenecks in drug manufacturing. The article concludes by emphasizing Purdue's commitment to leveraging research strengths and industry collaboration to make a meaningful impact on healthcare globally.