Long-lasting nanoparticles for controlled release drug delivery

Reference number 11610

Sectors: Biotechnology, Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals

Industries: Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Therapeutics

A nanoparticle drug platform that can deliver small molecule drugs over a sustained period in a stable, low-toxic manner.

Proposed use

This novel nanoparticle drug delivery technology is poised to revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in segments focused on chronic conditions requiring long-term medication. It promises to benefit patient groups with diseases like arthritis or diabetes, where controlled, sustained drug release is crucial. Other potential patient groups include those taking chronic prophylactic medications.  Market analysis suggests a significant demand for such innovations, with potential expansion into other sectors seeking slow-release solutions. For example, radiotherapeutics for labelling and diagnostics in PET sensing as well as chemotherapies.

Problem addressed

The technology confronts the instability of conventional drug delivery systems, which often degrade quickly and release drugs inconsistently, causing fluctuating drug levels that can lead to toxicity. The nanoparticles remain stable, ensuring steady drug release and minimising side effects. Additionally, the technology successfully navigates the Blood-Brain Barrier, as evidenced by therapeutic changes in stroke models. The synthesis of covalently crosslinked nanoparticles via nano-polymerization is a key innovation, allowing for sustained drug release without the adverse effects of prolonged drug presence.

Technology Overview

This innovative nanoparticle platform marks a significant advancement in drug delivery. The ‘nanocapsule’ is the first of its kind, featuring a fully covalent bond structure for enhanced safety and stability. It can encapsulate diverse therapeutic agents with precision. The platform’s unique chemistry and polymerisation process yield nanoparticles that set new benchmarks in longevity and controlled drug release, preventing premature dispersal. Its robust performance in physiological conditions and its ability to facilitate a slow, regulated release make it a compelling choice for pharmaceutical applications. The nanoparticles also show potential in enhancing therapeutic effectiveness, reducing toxicity, and reviving interest in previously ineffective bioactives. Successful human cell uptake, indicated by uniform distribution in fluorescein-labelled HeLa cells, validates the initial design and functionality of the nanoparticles.

A scientific figure showing the ability of Oligolactoglycolic acid dimethacrylates (OLGADMs) to nanopolymerise in a controlled uniform manner

Figure 1 Oligolactoglycolic acid dimethacrylates (OLGADMs) can nanopolymerise In a controlled uniform manner vs conventional PLGA-based nanopolymers.

Benefits

  • Consistent Delivery: Provides an avenue for predictable and steady drug release, enhancing treatment efficacy.
  • Extended Duration: Offers a stable drug presence, far exceeding current solutions.
  • Safety and Stability: The unique covalently crosslinked chemical structure ensures safety and resistance to premature breakdown and inertness to bioactive and the body.
  • Innovative Chemistry: Employs cutting-edge chemical synthesis for unparalleled precision in drug delivery.

Intellectual property information

Patent application has been filed

Inventor

Dr Nazila Kamaly

Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry

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Edmond Yau

Industry Partnerships and Commercialisation Executive – Faculty of Natural Sciences

Edmond joined Imperial in February 2022 as an Industry Partnerships and Commercialisation Executive. He primarily takes care of IP and licensing cases from the Faculty of Natural Sciences. Prior to joining Imperial, Edmond worked in Royal College of Art as Intellectual Property Manager who assists with queries regarding intellectual property especially patents and copyrights. Edmond has rich experience in transferring technology from tertiary institution to private sector before he moved to the UK. Edmond worked in the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the Chinese University of Hong Kong for more than a decade handling around several hundreds of inventions and thousands of patent applications/patents from Faculties of Engineering, Science and Medicine. He was also responsible for advising on IP strategy, patent prosecution, and the resolution of IP ownership. In addition to this, Edmond was in charge of the invention disclosure process, patent prosecution as well as licensing negotiations. He handled various types of agreements, including confidentiality, licensing, joint-ownership and royalty sharing agreements. Edmond is a patent agent by training (qualified in the People Republic of China in 2016), with his first degree in Chemical Engineering and a Master degree in Laws specialised in IP Laws from the […]

Contact Edmond

[email protected]

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