| DESCRIPTION |
Our nanoparticle network delivery system involves first producing environmentally responsive hydrogel nanoparticles and then bonding them together resulting in a new class of gels with two levels of engineered structural difference: the primary network and the secondary network. The primary network is composed of nanoparticles formed of crosslinked polymer chains that absorb a large fraction of water. A secondary network links these nanogels together in an extended lattice. Utilizing these unique properties in combination with our proprietary bioerodible crosslinking technology, nanoparticle networks could be used to entrap, stabilize and deliver small and/or very large active compounds at predictable and controllable rates. The processes to produce nanoparticles and networks are conduced in the absence of any organic solvents, thus minimizing any deleterious effects on the active compound during its entrapment. These novel properties and innocuous manufacturing and processing conditions will enhance the versatility of polymer gel nanoparticle networks as potential controlled drug delivery carriers. In addition, such nanostructured gels have new and unique properties that are not typically inherent with conventional gels. These properties include a high surface area and the ability to be easily combined together, if desired, to yield heterogeneous networks of diversified physical and chemical properties. One pharmaceutical application of interest is targeted oral drug delivery. Nanoparticle networks can be engineered to fall apart R xonreollws rate releasing individual nanoparticles in a specific environment, e.g. low pH. This degradation can release trapped large molecules or free nanoparticles containing active drugs. The individual nanoparticles can be "programmed" to degrade at independent rates allowing protection of actives and appropriate dispersion. Targeting agents such as vitamins, chemically or physically attached to the nanoparticle surfaces, can be used to allow active transport of nanoparticles across the gut while protecting therapeutics for subsequent release. Our overall research and development efforts are focused on creating opportunities in the use of this technology for controlled drug delivery for a variety of indications. Other non-pharmaceutical applications in areas such as optical and colorimetric sensors, integrated circuit lithography, optical displays, and environmental clean-up agents, may be explored through collaborations with other organizations |
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