Modular Gas Package for Controlled Therapeutic NO Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for delivering therapeutic gases like gNO are complex, cumbersome, and costly, particularly when using pressurized gas cylinders and sophisticated delivery systems, and are limited by the complexity and cost of polymer-based gas generators.
Innovation Solution
Development of gas packages comprising a reservoir, interface layer, and sealing/holding container that regulate gas flow, allowing controlled delivery of therapeutic gases, including gNO, to specific sites or volumes, with the option to activate gas release as needed, providing a simpler, more cost-effective, and less cumbersome solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pressurized gas cylinders and sophisticated delivery systems are used, then controlled delivery of therapeutic gases is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is segmented into modular components: gas-generating polymers embedded in a delivery matrix, interface layers for controlled release, and reservoir structures. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The polymer-based gas generator is designed to autonomously produce therapeutic gas through contact with moisture or body heat, eliminating the need for external pressurized cylinders, complex regulation mechanisms, and manual refilling operations.
2Quantity of substance
If pressurized gas cylinders are used, then sufficient gas supply is ensured, but weight and size penalties occur
Solution Approach 1:
The gas storage mechanism transitions from high-pressure gaseous state to solid polymer matrix state, dramatically reducing density and weight. The polymer gradually releases gas molecules in response to environmental triggers, maintaining adequate supply without requiring heavy pressurization equipment.
3Device complexity
If polymer-based gas generators are used, then device simplicity is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses composite structures combining biocompatible polymers with gas-generating moieties, embedded in delivery matrices such as hydrogels or scaffolds. These composite materials can be manufactured using established biomedical fabrication techniques, balancing manufacturing feasibility with device simplicity.
4Reliability
If polymers are charged with therapeutic gas before use, then on-demand delivery is enabled, but dependency on environmental variables increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gas release mechanism is designed to dynamically respond to physiological conditions such as body temperature, pH changes, or moisture levels at the application site. This dynamic response allows the system to adapt to varying environmental conditions while maintaining reliable on-demand 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
Enables predictable, adjustable, and customizable gas delivery profiles, improving the efficacy of therapeutic gas administration while reducing costs and complexity, and allowing for sterilization and treatment of medical and non-medical conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Some polymers have the ability to absorb a therapeutic gas if they are placed in a gas rich environment and then release the gas at a later time if the surrounding level of the gas drops, consistent with the principles of diffusion.
Implementation Method 2
Some polymers have the ability to absorb a therapeutic gas if they are placed in a gas rich environment and then release the gas at a later time
Data Source
AI summary
Gas packages for the delivery of therapeutic gases, and in particular gaseous nitric oxide (gNO) are provided herein. The gas packages comprise one or more of a gas reservoir, interface layer, sealing layer, and holding container. The interface layer regulates discharge of the therapeutic gas from the gas reservoir to the external environment. The sealing layer and/or holding container prevent evolution of the gas until the sealing layer is compromised or the holding container is opened. The gas packages and methods for using them are useful for the treatment, alleviation, and prevention of various disease and non-disease, medical and non-medical, conditions in humans and animals.