Benefit
  • Synthesized metabolite-based polymers allow for greater bioactivity.
  • Able to promote significantly faster and stronger osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization without using exogenous growth factors or drugs.

  • Efficient intracellular drug delivery through phagocytosis for a broad range of therapeutic areas.

     

Technology Description

Methods to target alpha-ketoglutarate release have been an area of interest due to its potential for reducing bone loss, promoting bone formation, and its role in the aging process. However, long-term systemic administration has posed challenges for achieving controlled and sustained release.


Recent developments from Dr. Hongli Sun’s laboratory have introduced a novel method for sustained alpha-ketoglutarate release. By coupling the molecule with a polyester to create microparticles, it can now be delivered locally with high cell permeability to promote osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration. This innovative method has demonstrated significantly enhanced osteogenesis without exogenous growth factors or cells, paving the way for improved endogenous bone regeneration. Furthermore, this approach holds promise as a drug delivery platform via phagocytosis, offering potential applications for a wide range of regenerative medicines.

UIRF Case No. 2024-041

 

Stage of Development

In vitro work has been completed in cell culture systems, with in vivo animal model experiments ongoing.

 

IP Status: Patent Pending: Patent pending.
 
Lead Researcher(s)
To learn more about this technology, please contact Kellen Sensor.