Cross-linked collagen constructs for controlled antimicrobial release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biomedical applications lack effective antimicrobial solutions for sustained release of antimicrobial agents, particularly in collagen-based constructs, which are essential for treating microbial infections with controlled release rates.
Innovation Solution
Development of biocompatible cross-linked collagen constructs incorporating antimicrobial agents like silver through cross-linking agents such as nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), allowing for controlled release rates including immediate, intermediate, and extended release profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If antimicrobial agents are incorporated into collagen constructs for sustained release, then antimicrobial activity is improved, but the complexity of the construct increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the collagen matrix and antimicrobial agent into a single integrated construct. The antimicrobial agent is incorporated directly into the collagen during cross-linking, creating a unified structure that provides both structural support and antimicrobial function simultaneously, rather than requiring separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite material by combining collagen with antimicrobial agents (such as silver, antibiotics, or antiseptics) to form a new construct that exhibits both the mechanical properties of collagen and the antimicrobial properties of the incorporated agent. This composite approach allows sustained release while maintaining structural integrity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple cross-linking agents are used to incorporate antimicrobial agents, then the antimicrobial release control is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in cross-linking parameters (such as cross-linking agent concentration, pH, temperature, and reaction time) to control the release rate of antimicrobial agents. By adjusting these parameters, the construct can be tailored to provide immediate, sustained, or controlled release profiles without requiring complex multi-step manufacturing processes.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If silver is incorporated through cross-linking agents, then sustained release over extended time frames is achieved, but the amount of substance required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the porous or fibrillar structure of collagen to enhance the surface area and binding capacity for silver ions. The cross-linked collagen matrix provides numerous binding sites that can sequester silver, allowing sustained release over extended periods with lower overall silver content compared to non-porous 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 constructs provide sustained antimicrobial activity by releasing effective amounts of silver over a range of time frames, from minutes to days, effectively inhibiting microbial infections while maintaining the mechanical properties of collagen constructs.
Implementation Method 1
the silver is ionic silver which is bound or chelated at least in part to the benzoquinone and/or the 1,2-dihydroxyphenyl moiety
Implementation Method 2
the biocompatible cross-linked collagen construct provides a sustained release of the antimicrobial agent including an immediate release, an intermediate release and extended release
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure describes collagen constructs comprising antimicrobial agents and related methods.