Statistical Gastrointestinal Tissue Sampling with Tetherless Microdevices

Case ID:
C11650
Disclosure Date:
8/16/2011

C11650: Relatively Non-Invasive Biopsy Sampling Device of Tissue

Novelty:

The micro-tools uses a tetherless design which is relatively non-invasive, non-toxic, and collects using a magnetic probe, which allows for a large number of samples to be extracted by covering more surface area for randomized statistical sampling.

Value Proposition:

It is difficult and invasive to obtain diagnostically relevant samples from certain organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract, the airways and lungs, urinary tract and bladder. In ex-vivo proof-of-principle experiments, porcine gastrointestinal tissue samples were collected using sub-millimeter sized microgrippers. The microgrippers are created using conventional multilayer micro-fabrication. A large number of microgrippers were deployed into a porcine colon model through a catheter. When the open microgrippers close, they capture tissue. The large number of micro-tools ensures that a true statistical sampling of biologic tissue is obtained. The grippers can be retrieved with a magnetic probe which enables tissue acquisition for viable molecular diagnostics.

• Smaller samples retrieved could potentially result in fewer side effects and less trauma to the body, less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and the need for less pain medication.
• The tissue recovered is of sufficient quality and quantity for DNA/RNA extraction and PCR amplification.
• The device allows relevant samples to be obtained from typically hard to reach organs or tissues, such as the inside of the gastrointestinal tract, the airways and lungs, urinary tract and bladder.

Technical Details:

An innovative approach to obtain a statistical biopsy tissue sampling for accurate molecular diagnosis using microsurgical biopsy tools. The technology improves minimally invasive surgical procedures by using sub-millimeter sized instruments to garner multiple samples of the tissue of interest. The technique differs significantly from traditional biopsy in its ability to achieve expansive randomized sites and better coverage.

Looking for Partners:

To develop and commercialize the technology portfolio as a diagnostic companion partner to enhance and advance biopsy methods. Additionally, the technology is amenable for use in cancer models and diseases affecting the chest cavity and excretory system.

Stage of Development:

Pre-clinical

Data Availability:

Endoscopic images of ex-vivo experiments, optical microscopy, gel electrophoresis

Publications/Associated Cases:

C10325 C11519

Patent Information:
Inventors:
Category(s):
Get custom alerts for techs in these categories/from these inventors:
For Information, Contact:
Christine Joseph
cjoseph6@jhmi.edu
410-614-0300
Save This Technology:
2017 - 2022 © Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures. All Rights Reserved. Powered by Inteum