Biodegradable Microneedle Anchoring for ECM Tissue Constructs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ECM-based apparatus for tissue repair and regeneration often employ permanent, non-biodegradable anchoring structures that cause irritation and are prone to failure, leading to adverse consequences such as vascular thrombosis, and lack effective securing mechanisms for cardiovascular applications.
Innovation Solution
Development of ECM constructs with biocompatible and biodegradable anchoring mechanisms, such as microneedle anchoring members, that securely attach to biological tissue, induce tissue proliferation and regeneration, and deliver biologically active agents or pharmacological agents to promote site-specific structural and functional tissue repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent non-biodegradable anchoring structures are used to secure ECM apparatus to tissue, then the apparatus can be securely anchored, but the structures cause irritation and undesirable biologic responses in surrounding tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning the anchoring structure material from permanent non-biodegradable to biodegradable, changing its temporal properties. The biodegradable anchoring structure maintains mechanical integrity during the healing period then degrades into harmless byproducts, eliminating long-term tissue irritation while providing secure anchoring during the critical healing phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs the disposable principle by using biodegradable anchoring structures that serve their function temporarily and then are naturally eliminated by the body. These structures are designed to complete their anchoring mission during tissue healing and then degrade into harmless products, avoiding the need for permanent foreign bodies that cause ongoing irritation.
2Reliability
If permanent non-biodegradable anchoring structures are used, then the apparatus can be secured to tissue, but the structures are prone to failure resulting in severe adverse consequences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temporal parameter of the anchoring structure from permanent to temporary biodegradable. This allows the structure to maintain optimal mechanical properties during the healing period when anchoring strength is most needed, then naturally degrade when no longer needed, eliminating the risk of permanent structure failure and associated adverse consequences.
3Reliability
If conventional anchoring means are used for ECM endograft, then the endograft can be secured to vessel wall, but the securing is often ineffective allowing blood to pool between endograft and vessel wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using biodegradable anchoring structures with optimized mechanical properties that provide enhanced initial grip on the vessel wall. These structures maintain effective anchoring during the critical period when endothelialization occurs, preventing blood pooling and thrombosis, then degrade when the natural vessel wall has healed and taken over the anchoring function.
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 ECM constructs effectively secure to biological tissue, reduce inflammatory responses, promote tissue regeneration with site-specific properties, and administer therapeutic agents, enhancing the safety and efficacy of tissue repair and regeneration processes.
Implementation Method 1
induce host tissue proliferation, bioremodeling and regeneration of new tissue, and tissue structures with site-specific structural and functional properties
Data Source
AI summary
Extracellular matrix (ECM) constructs having a biodegradable support scaffold and an anchoring mechanism, which includes a plurality of biodegradable microneedles that are capable of piercing tissue and anchoring therein. In a preferred embodiment, the support scaffold and anchoring mechanism comprise an ECM material. In some embodiments, the microneedles are also capable of administering a biologically active agent and/or a pharmacological composition to the engaged tissue.