Summary:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Urology have developed a synthetic functionalized adhesive material that can be utilized for various purposes including wound closure.
Background:
Synthetic materials and adhesive polymers such as poly (glycerol sebacate) or PGS are often used in tissue engineering and medical devices. Such materials interface with biological tissue to achieve the desired therapeutic outcome due to their biocompatibility and flexbility. Existing systems require complex synthetic routes and are not customizable, limiting their use in devices that require flexible structures and forms. Prior methods employ harsh fabrication conditions and chemicals with limited biodegradability. Current technologies have limited adhesion properties and biocompatibility. There remains an unmet need for a biocompatible and biodegradable material for use in medical devices.
Innovation:
UCLA researchers in the Department Urology developed a material with a flexible structure, tunable mechanical properties, and adhesive surface properties. Researchers fabricated a material with enhanced adhesive strength and versatility using synthetic and biodegradable polymers, allowing for custom shaping. A simplified two-step synthetic route with mild conditions and reduced curing time was developed. This allows for the functionalization of the material with biologically active molecules. The modular approach reported facilitates the fabrication of materials with varying properties to support and reinforce suture lines. Ultimately, the researchers demonstrated the utility of this approach by generating a tunable bioadhesive wound closure device that proved effective in reducing bladder burst in porcine models. Further development of this approach could pave the way for next-generation wound closure devices.
Potential Applications:
- Medical implants
- Transdermal patches
- Tissue engineering
- Wound closures
- Bladder leaks
Advantages:
- Biodegradable materials
- Adhesive properties
- Customizable
- Simplified synthetic procedure
- Tunable mechanical properties
Development To Date:
Successful implementation of the technology demonstrated.
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2022-270
Lead Inventor:
Prof. Renea Sturm & Dr. George E. Aninwene II