Microporous Polymer Microcapsules for Controlled Drug Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing encapsulation technologies face challenges in controlling the size and thickness of microcapsules, leading to unpredictable release times and potential denaturation of encapsulated molecules, with chemical methods causing sudden and non-continuous release, and physical methods lacking controlled, gradual delivery.
Innovation Solution
Development of bio-assimilable polymer microcapsules with micrometric openings that allow controlled release of active substances over weeks or months, avoiding contact with harmful chemicals and maintaining the integrity of the encapsulated content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chemical encapsulation methods are used, then encapsulation is achieved, but the release time cannot be controlled and the encapsulated molecule may be denatured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a physical encapsulation intermediary system consisting of a biocompatible polymer membrane with controlled micropores. This membrane acts as a mediator between the encapsulated molecule and the external environment, allowing controlled diffusion without chemical interaction that could cause denaturation. The microporous structure provides a physical barrier that maintains molecular integrity while enabling regulated release.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces chemical encapsulation mechanisms with a physical-mechanical system. Instead of using chemical reactions or solvent-based methods that may denature molecules, the invention employs a mechanically stable biocompatible polymer membrane with precisely controlled micropores. The release mechanism is based on physical diffusion through these micropores rather than chemical degradation, substituting chemical action with controlled physical transport.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If physical encapsulation methods are used, then the encapsulated product is protected from harmful chemistry, but the release is sudden and non-continuous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a microporous biocompatible polymer membrane as the encapsulation barrier. The microporous structure allows continuous, controlled diffusion of the encapsulated molecule through the membrane walls and the micrometric opening. This porous architecture enables sustained release over time while maintaining protection from harmful chemical environments, resolving the contradiction between protection and controlled continuous delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of the release process through the microporous membrane structure. The membrane allows the encapsulated molecule to diffuse continuously at a controlled rate determined by pore size, membrane thickness, and concentration gradients. This dynamic release mechanism replaces sudden non-continuous release with a regulated, sustained delivery system that adapts to concentration differences while protecting the molecule.
3Ease of manufacture
If chemical encapsulation is used, then encapsulation is achieved, but the size and thickness of microcapsules cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first forming the biocompatible polymer membrane with predetermined microporous structure and controlled thickness before encapsulating the molecule. The membrane is prepared in advance with specific geometric parameters (micropore size, wall thickness) that are maintained during encapsulation. This preliminary preparation of the encapsulation barrier ensures precise size and thickness control while facilitating the encapsulation process.
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 microcapsules provide targeted, prolonged release of active substances, reducing the required quantity and cost of treatment while minimizing side effects, with controlled size and uniformity, and enabling localized implantation.
Implementation Method 1
These capsules allow the release of molecules of interest, for example cytotoxic molecules, over a period of up to several weeks or months as required
Implementation Method 2
The body of the capsules is metabolized, so the implantation may be repeated
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a bio-assimilable polymer microcapsule loaded with at least one active substance and comprising at least one micrometric opening. The disclosure also relates to a method for obtaining said capsule, and to this capsule for its use in the treatment of a pathology, in particular cancer or myopathy.