JHU Ref #: [C17294]
Value Proposition:
· Application of composite hydrogel to mechanically irritated nerves can reduce perineural adhesions and scar formation.
· Improves patient outcomes following peripheral nerve surgery.
Technology Description
· Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed a nanofiber-hydrogel composite (NHC) material platform.
· This injectable hydrogel formulation mimics the microarchitecture and mechanical properties of soft tissue extracellular matrix.
· NHC has significant surgical and regenerative medicine applications.
Unmet Need
· Peripheral nerve surgeries are becoming increasingly common with age-related nerve disease and traumatic injuries.
· There is significant innovation in surgical technique and medical devices to address these diseases.
· However, nearly all require mechanical disruption of the peripheral nerve, which is prone to adhesion and potential scar-inducing injury.
· Therefore, there is a clear need for a solution that prevents these occurrences, optimizing the long-term success of peripheral nerve surgical interventions.
Stage of Development
In vivo studies have been performed in rodent models of peripheral nerve injury.
Publication
N/A
