Cross-linked collagen constructs with sustained copper release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current biomedical applications lack effective antifungal solutions for sustained release of antifungal agents, particularly in collagen-based constructs, which are essential for treating fungal infections with controlled release profiles.

Innovation Solution

Development of cross-linked collagen constructs incorporating a releasable antifungal agent, such as copper, using cross-linking agents like nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) and other biocompatible materials, allowing for sustained release profiles including immediate, intermediate, and extended release rates, ensuring effective antifungal activity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cross-linked collagen constructs are used for biomedical applications, then structural integrity and biocompatibility are improved, but antifungal activity is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidfungal infection

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines cross-linked collagen constructs with antifungal agents (such as copper, NDGA, or other antifungal compounds) to create a composite material that simultaneously provides structural integrity and antifungal activity. The collagen matrix serves as both the structural framework and the delivery vehicle for the antifungal agent, merging two functional requirements into a single construct.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a composite material system where cross-linked collagen is combined with antifungal agents. The collagen provides biocompatibility and structural support, while the incorporated antifungal agents provide the necessary antifungal protection. This composite approach allows both properties to coexist and work together in the same construct.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Object-affected harmful factors

If antifungal agents are incorporated into collagen constructs, then antifungal activity is improved, but sustained release capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefungal infectionVSAvoidrelease duration

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The antifungal agents are pre-incorporated into the collagen matrix during the construction phase, allowing them to be released in a controlled manner over time. The collagen structure is prepared in advance to serve as a reservoir and delivery mechanism, enabling sustained release without requiring additional release mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs various cross-linking methods and formulations to control the degradation rate and release profile of the collagen construct. By adjusting cross-linking density, agent concentration, and matrix composition, the release duration can be tuned to achieve sustained delivery of antifungal agents over the desired time period.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If cross-linking agents are used to strengthen collagen constructs, then mechanical strength is improved, but biocompatibility may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidbiocompatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses physiologically acceptable cross-linking agents and controls cross-linking conditions to achieve adequate mechanical strength while maintaining biocompatibility. By optimizing cross-linking density and selecting biocompatible cross-linking chemistry, the construct achieves the necessary strength without introducing toxic or immunogenic components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The use of biocompatible cross-linking agents creates a composite structure where the cross-links provide mechanical reinforcement without compromising the biological compatibility of the collagen matrix. The cross-linked network enhances strength while the natural collagen framework maintains biocompatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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 cross-linked collagen constructs provide a therapeutically effective and sustained release of antifungal agents, effectively inhibiting fungal infections by releasing copper at controlled rates, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy and duration.

Implementation Method 1

the antifungal agent is incorporated into the construct so that there is a sustained release

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDiffusion: Diffusion

Implementation Method 2

releasing copper at controlled rates

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDissolution:

Implementation Method 3

Koob et al. have described methods of producing nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) polymerized collagen fibers

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectChemical bonding: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 4

NDGA polymerized collagen fibers

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPolymerization: Photopolymerisation

Implementation Method 5

the antifungal agent is incorporated into the construct

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCoordination bonding:

Data Source

PatentUS8940684B2Cross-linked collagen comprising an antifungal agent

Publication Date: 2015.01.27 MIMEDX GROUP INC

AI summary

The disclosure describes collagen constructs comprising antifungal agents, preferably, copper, and related methods.