Cryogel-Integrated Needles for Biomedical Applications

Description:

INV-20117

Background

The most used drug delivery systems are topical creams, tablets, and capsules. However, due to shortcomings including the inability to cross the barriers (skin, intestinal lining, stomach lining), degradation of drugs in the stomach, high-frequency dosing, and metabolism by liver oral administration, they are not the most efficient strategies. To overcome these barriers, the use of needles, iontophoresis, sonophoresis, and electrophoresis have been tried which often lead to disruption of the skin and cause irritation. This invention suggests a novel technique to achieve a safe, patient compliant transdermal drug delivery system. 

Technology Overview

 Northeastern University researchers have developed 3D printed cryogel-integrated miniaturized needle arrays (MNAs) as an innovative drug delivery device or vaccine administration system. Their microporous interconnected structure mimics the extracellular matrix hence, reduce the inflammation and irritation on the incision. The unique properties of cryogels allow encapsulation, protection, and control delivery of therapeutic agents. 

Benefits

• Minimally invasive, safe, and painless administration
• Enhanced cell infiltration
• A variety of drugs can be loaded (small molecules, proteins, insulin, growth hormone, vaccines)
• Increased drug loading efficiency
• Controlled drug release (extended drug release profile)
• Minimal immune response

Applications

•  This versatile platform can be used for:
  • Vaccines administration (humans and animals) 
  • Tissue regeneration
  • Drug delivery (small molecules, large molecules)
  •  Cell transplantation
  • Cosmetics treatment (Dermal fillers, wrinkle treatments)
  • Wound healing

Opportunity

• License
• Partnering
• Research collaboration