Artificial Saliva Gel Viscosity Stabilization via CNC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current artificial saliva products for dry mouth are ineffective due to frequent application requirements, unpleasantness, inability to control nighttime symptoms, low patient compliance, and dental erosive potential, necessitating a more reliable and comfortable solution.
Innovation Solution
Development of a high viscosity, muco-adhesive artificial saliva gel that maintains viscosity at body temperature, is sterile, and includes a preservative, with the addition of nano-crystalline cellulose (CNC) to stabilize viscosity during gamma radiation sterilization, providing long-lasting relief and reduced application frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gamma radiation sterilization is applied to achieve sterility, then sterility is improved, but viscosity breaks down and product effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by adding a viscosity stabilizing agent to the artificial saliva formulation before gamma radiation sterilization. This pre-emptive measure ensures that when sterilization occurs, the viscosity of the product is maintained and does not break down, thus achieving both sterility and viscosity stability without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
The viscosity stabilizing agent acts as an intermediary substance that protects the artificial saliva's viscosity from radiation-induced breakdown. This mediator absorbs or mitigates the harmful effects of gamma radiation on the polymer structure, allowing sterilization to proceed while preserving the product's rheological properties
2Reliability
If artificial saliva products are applied frequently to maintain moisture, then symptom relief is improved, but patient compliance deteriorates due to inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial or excessive action by formulating the artificial saliva with high viscosity and muco-adhesive properties that enable it to remain on oral tissues for extended periods. This excessive adhesion ensures continuous symptom relief throughout the day and night, reducing the need for frequent reapplication and thereby improving patient compliance
3Reliability
If low pH formulations are used to preserve the product, then preservation is improved, but dental erosion potential increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the pH of the artificial saliva formulation to a neutral or near-neutral range, replacing the traditional low pH preservative system. This parameter change maintains product preservation through alternative means while eliminating the harmful dental erosion associated with acidic formulations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The gel offers improved muco-adhesive and lubricant properties, increased duration of action, higher patient compliance, and lower costs, while being safe for long-term ingestion and non-irritating, with CNC enhancing stability and viscosity post-irradiation.
Implementation Method 1
the gel can include a viscosity stabilising agent such as a viscosity protection agent for protection from radiation induced breakdown
Implementation Method 2
the addition of nano-crystalline cellulose (CNC) to stabilize viscosity during gamma radiation sterilization
Implementation Method 3
In some embodiments, the gel can act as a lubricant
Implementation Method 4
Development of a high viscosity, muco-adhesive artificial saliva gel
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an artificial saliva gel and uses thereof to treat or ameliorate dry mouth (xerostomia). The gel can be of a high viscosity that is maintained at body temperature or when exposed to bodily fluids (for instance, saliva). In some embodiments, the gel can act as a lubricant. Although water-based, the gel can be hydrophobic and not readily dissolvable in bodily fluids. In some embodiments, the gel can be sterile, safe for long-term repeated ingestion, and include a preservative. In some embodiments, the gel can comprise a dental agent for inhibiting growth of dental microorganisms. In order to achieve sterility while maintaining a desired viscosity range, the gel can include a viscosity stabilising agent such as a viscosity protection agent for protection from radiation induced breakdown. The gel can also include a coloring and/or a flavoring agent.