Enteric-Coated SCFA Capsules for Sustained Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current short chain fatty acid (SCFA) therapeutic compounds have limited efficacy due to rapid absorption in the small intestine and short half-life, necessitating the development of safe and effective compositions for treating or preventing diseases and disorders.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising at least one SCFA, SCFA precursor, or SCFA biosynthesis precursor, linked to a moiety such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), which hydrolyzes under low pH conditions to release the SCFA, and may include butyrate and propionate, along with additional agents like apremilast and vitamin D, formulated as enteric-coated extended-release capsules or eyedrops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SCFA compounds are administered therapeutically, then anti-inflammatory effects are achieved, but rapid absorption in the small intestine causes short half-life and limited efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the SCFA delivery system into multiple components: enteric-coated capsules that segment the release location to bypass the small intestine, and extended-release formulations that segment the release time. This segmentation allows the SCFA to avoid rapid absorption in the small intestine and maintain therapeutic levels for longer durations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (enteric coating material) that protects the SCFA from premature absorption in the small intestine. The coating acts as a mediator that prevents direct contact between the SCFA and the absorptive surface of the small intestine, thereby extending half-life while maintaining therapeutic efficacy.
2Productivity
If SCFA is released rapidly in the small intestine, then absorption is efficient, but therapeutic duration is too short for effective treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by using enteric coating that pre-determines the release location of the SCFA. The coating is designed to remain intact during passage through the small intestine and only dissolve in the colon, ensuring that the SCFA is released at the intended site after bypassing rapid absorption zones, thereby extending therapeutic duration while maintaining absorption efficiency at the target site.
Solution Approach 2:
The extended-release formulation implements periodic action by releasing the SCFA in controlled intervals or sustained amounts over an extended period. This periodic release pattern maintains therapeutic levels in the colon over time, addressing the short duration problem while preserving efficient absorption at each release interval.
3Ease of operation
If conventional SCFA formulations are used, then administration is simple, but efficacy is limited due to short half-life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the SCFA formulation by applying enteric coating and extended-release technology. These parameter changes modify the release characteristics of the SCFA without fundamentally altering the administration method, thus maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving therapeutic efficacy through extended half-life and targeted delivery.
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 composition provides sustained release of SCFAs, enhancing their therapeutic efficacy by prolonging their presence in the body and improving treatment outcomes for conditions like psoriasis, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory disorders.
Implementation Method 1
the composition hydrolyzes under a low pH condition to yield PEG and a SCFA
Implementation Method 2
formulated as enteric-coated extended-release capsules
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to compositions and methods that include short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), related therapeutic compounds, and other compounds, including combinations thereof, for the treatment or prevention of diseases or disorders.