Nanofiber Nerve Cuffs to Inhibit Neuroma Formation

Case ID:
C17593

Nanofiber Nerve Cuff to Inhibit Neuroma Formation

JHU Ref #: [C17593]

Value Proposition:

·        This device can be used to cap the end of a severed nerve to prevent unwanted nerve growth through a combination of physical and biochemical mechanisms.

·        This device is more effective than existing nerve caps and cuffs, due to the inclusion of bioactive agents that biochemically influence nerve growth.

Technology Description

·        Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed a nanofiber nerve cuff device that can be used to inhibit neuroma formation.

·        This technology uses a nanofiber matrix to cover the severed end of a nerve at the site of injury.

·        This semi-permeable matrix allows for nutrient exchange, fluid transport, and immunomodulation.

·        Bioactive fillers and embedded bioactive materials slowly release small molecules that inhibit axon regeneration.

·        This device can prevent painful neuroma growth in patients with peripheral nerve injuries, with a particular focus on amputee patients.

Unmet Need

·        Painful neuromas can develop following peripheral nerve injury, particularly among amputees.

·        There are ~2 million patients in the United States who have undergone amputation surgery, with ~185k procedures each year.

·        Neuromas are commonly treated with surgical resection, which is invasive and can lead to complications (e.g. further nerve damage, scarring).

·        Therefore, there is a strong need to develop a less invasive solution that address the formation of neuromas.

Stage of Development

·        Physical prototype with pre-clinical in vivo data from small animal models.

·        Looking for corporate partnerships

Publication

N/A

Patent Information:
Title App Type Country Serial No. Patent No. File Date Issued Date Expire Date Patent Status
NANOFIBER NERVE CAPS TO INHIBIT NEUROMA FORMATION PCT: Patent Cooperation Treaty PCT PCT/US2024/016845   2/22/2024     Pending
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For Information, Contact:
Lisa Schwier
lschwie2@jhu.edu
410-614-0300
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