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Novel Nanocomposite Polymer with complete tissue and blood compatibility for medical devices (10 GB 44O7 3GCM)
A UK London-based organisation has developed a novel nanocomposite polymer (NC) that can uniquely achieve complete tissue and blood compatibility, unlike conventional medical polymers such as poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) and Dacron. The organisation is seeking medical device manufacturers to collaborate towards development and commercialization.
Country: United Kingdom
Type: OFFER
Date: 25.10.2010
The Nanocomposite polymer (NC) is based on Silsesquioxane, and exhibits unique surface properties. It preferentially adsorbs and deactivates fibrinogen, thus preventing activation of the coagulation cascades, inflammation and growth of tissue capsule.
A new synthesis route allows preparation of the NC so that it has controlled properties. This is achieved by introducing Silsequioxanes as pendant groups into the backbone of the polymer. Uniquely there is no degradation by hydrolysis or oxidation. However, variants of the NC can also be produced so that controlled degradation will occur, making these variants suitable candidates for tissue engineering scaffolds. In addition the NC can be manipulated, for example by attachment of drugs, gene vectors or other biomolecules relevant to the applications.
The NC is not toxic to cells and supports the adhesion and growth of cells in vitro. Furthermore, the NC inhibits protein absorption by prolonging the coagulation time. This prevents thrombogenicity and non-compatibility with blood, which together are the second principal reason behind failure of material surfaces of medical devices.
A three-year in vivo implantation study in a large animal model has confirmed in vitro findings that the NC is biocompatible, non-toxic, and shows no evidence of degradation, inflammation or capsule formation.
Innovative Aspects:
The physical properties of the NC are such that it can be tailored to many specific medical device applications, for example:
" Coronary artery bypass grafts the NC can be made more elastic to closely mimic the elasticity of arteries" Coating of coronary stents the NC supports the adhesion and growth of cells, including endothelial cells " Tissue scaffolds the NC can be tailor-made to be degradable under controlled conditions " Condoms and surgical gloves the NC is thin and strong and retains its original shape.
The NC will allow manufacturers to market a broad spectrum of safer, more efficient medical devices and other products. As the NC is not drug based, CE and FDA approval are more easily achievable and so offer the device manufacturer unique opportunities.
Degree of development:
Patents/Rights: Patent(s) granted
Requested Cooperation: License Agreement, Joint further development, Testing of new applications
- Type of partner sought: Industry
- Specific area of activity of the partner: Medical devices
- Task to be performed by the partner sought: testing and development
Type of Organisation:
Status: NEW
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