C12010: Drug-Loaded Microfiber SuturesNovelty:
The technology is an ultrafine, drug-loaded microfiber suture in various surgical applications including ophthalmic surgery.
Value Proposition:
This technology provides a means of improving surgical outcomes by using sutures that can be loaded with various drugs, including antibiotics and immunosuppressants. These novel sutures act as drug delivery systems, showing drug release for more than three months during in vitro trials. The sutures are made of Poly (l lactic acid) (PLLA), which is a biocompatible polymer. There are currently no PLLA sutures on the market for use in ophthalmic procedures. Key advantages of this technology include:
• Sutures are biodegradable, biocompatible, and bioabsorbable
• Microfibers have mechanical properties suitable for surgical applications
• Drug delivery from these sutures features a burst release
• Microfibers can be loaded with various drugs depending on intended application
Technical Details:
Johns Hopkins researchers have invented PLLA drug-loaded microfibers for use as sutures. These microfibers are made through an unpublished electrospinning process. This fabrication technique allows the microfiber diameter to be tuned to 7-0 to 10-0 (United States Pharmacopeia designation), which is suitable for ophthalmic surgery. The microfibers have undergone characterization to ensure proper morphology, tensile strength, and drug release kinetics for surgical use.
Looking for Partners:
To develop and commercialize the technology as a combined drug-delivery platform and wound closure system, especially for ophthalmic surgeries.
Stage of Development:
Pre-clinical
Data Availability:
Fiber morphology, tensile stress, drug release kinetics, and antibacterial behavior of the fibers.
Publications/Associated Cases:
Not available at this time
