Dextran-Poloxamer Hydrogel for Controlled Drug Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for biocompatible, biodegradable hydrogels for medical applications such as wound healing and drug delivery that can provide controlled and sustained release of therapeutic agents.
Innovation Solution
A cross-linked polymeric network comprising polysaccharide segments, such as dextran, and epoxide segments, such as poloxamer, which can be chemically or ionically cross-linked using methods like electron beam curing, forming a thermoresponsive hydrogel capable of controlled drug delivery and wound healing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hydrogels are used for drug delivery, then drug delivery capability is provided, but biocompatibility and biodegradability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining polysaccharide segments (such as dextran) with epoxide segments (such as poloxamer) to form a cross-linked polymeric network. This composite structure integrates the biocompatibility and biodegradability of natural polysaccharides with the functional properties of synthetic epoxide polymers, achieving both high biocompatibility and controlled biodegradability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by incorporating thermoresponsive segments into the hydrogel network. The hydrogel exhibits lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior, where its physical properties change in response to temperature variations. This allows the hydrogel to transition between sol and gel states, enabling controlled drug release and improving biocompatibility through temperature-responsive behavior that mimics physiological conditions.
2Duration of action of moving object
If hydrogels are used for sustained release, then duration of action is improved, but control precision over release rate is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by creating a thermoresponsive hydrogel system that can dynamically adjust its drug release profile in response to temperature changes. The hydrogel transitions from a sol state at lower temperatures to a gel state at higher temperatures, enabling on-demand control of the release rate. This dynamic behavior allows precise control over the duration and rate of drug release, overcoming the limitation of static release profiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits phase transitions by utilizing the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior of the hydrogel. Below the LCST, the hydrogel exists in a sol state with higher chain mobility and faster drug release. Above the LCST, it transitions to a gel state with reduced mobility and slower release. This phase transition mechanism provides precise control over the sustained release duration and rate, allowing the system to deliver drugs over extended periods with programmable kinetics.
3Stability of the object's composition
If cross-linked polymeric networks are used, then structural stability is improved, but ease of manufacture is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or chemical cross-linking methods with radiation-induced cross-linking using electron beams or gamma radiation. This substitution eliminates the need for complex chemical initiators, catalysts, or prolonged mixing processes. The radiation energy directly activates the formation of cross-links between polymer chains, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving high structural stability and cross-linking efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by utilizing the inherent radio-sensitivity of the epoxide and polysaccharide segments to enable automatic cross-linking upon radiation exposure. The polymer segments contain functional groups that spontaneously form cross-links when exposed to ionizing radiation, without requiring external catalysts or complex processing steps. This self-cross-linking capability simplifies manufacturing while ensuring consistent structural stability and network formation.
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 hydrogel provides a biocompatible, biodegradable platform for sustained and controlled release of therapeutic agents, facilitating wound healing and drug delivery, with tunable properties for various medical applications, including topical, transdermal, and deep cavity wound treatments.
Implementation Method 1
The polymeric network may be cross-linked with chemically or ionizing radiation such as gamma or beta radiation. Other embodiments may result in cross-linking with ionic bonds with polyvalent metals, organic materials having an ionic charge.
Implementation Method 2
Hydrogels comprise a network of polymer chains that are hydrophilic. The hydrogels may swell by the addition of a liquid.
Implementation Method 3
The polysaccharide may comprise biodegradable glycosidic bonds.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and compositions related polymers and hydrogels. In some cases to biodegradable hydrogels for use in medical applications are disclosed. The polymers and hydrogels may be produced from cross-linked dextran and poly(epoxides). The poly(epoxides) may be poloxamers.