Case No. 2016-788
SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering have developed a novel biomaterial that can be used as a therapeutic for cancer, wound healing and other diseases.
BACKGROUND
Immunotherapy, the modulation of immune response to drive tissue-specific expression has tremendous potential as a therapeutic for malignant cancers and for wound healing. It can also be used for vaccination. However, such an approach requires an immune modulator that can cause a local, sustained immune response without side effects and is not prone to clearance.
INNOVATION
UCLA researchers have developed a novel biomaterial with immune-modulatory properties. Their approach is based on a solid hydrogel with chemically cross-linked immune modulators. It is not prone to clearance and is stable for long time periods ensuring a sustained immune response. Their initial proof of concept experiments showed an eight-fold increase in expression of immune cells around the biomaterial.
APPLICATIONS
Immunotherapy for Malignant Tumors
Wound healing
Vaccinations
ADVANTAGES
Targeted delivery of immune response modulators for reduced side-effects
Solid immune-modulator approach is less prone to clearance
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
Proof of concept experiments conducted in animal model systems.
PATENT STATUS
Patent Pending