Polymer Chelator Conjugates for Controlled Metal Ion Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cross-linked polymers used in biomedical applications have a long in vivo residence time, which can be undesirable, as they do not release therapeutic metal ions quickly enough, while non-cross-linked polymers may not provide sufficient stability for effective drug delivery.
Innovation Solution
A biologically compatible polymer-chelator conjugate is developed where the chelating moieties are covalently bound to the polymer but do not participate in cross-linking, allowing for the reversible binding of pharmacologically active metal ions, such as silver, copper, or platinum, with a focus on minimizing cross-linking to achieve a controlled release of these ions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cross-linked polymers are used, then in vivo residence time is extended and stability is improved, but metal ion release rate becomes too slow
Solution Approach 1:
The polymer system is segmented into two distinct populations: cross-linked polymer particles providing stability and non-cross-linked polymer particles enabling rapid metal ion release. This segmentation allows each population to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between stability and release rate.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the cross-linking parameter of the polymer system by creating a mixture of cross-linked and non-cross-linked polymer particles. By adjusting the proportion and characteristics of each population, the system achieves both long residence time (from cross-linked particles) and rapid metal ion release (from non-cross-linked particles).
2Productivity
If non-cross-linked polymers are used, then metal ion release rate is improved, but in vivo residence time becomes too short
Solution Approach 1:
The polymer system is segmented into two distinct populations: cross-linked polymer particles providing stability and non-cross-linked polymer particles enabling rapid metal ion release. This segmentation allows each population to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between stability and release rate.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges two polymer populations with opposite characteristics (cross-linked and non-cross-linked) into a single composite system. The cross-linked particles provide long residence time while the non-cross-linked particles provide rapid metal ion release, achieving both desired properties simultaneously through combination.
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
This approach enables a sustained and controlled release of therapeutic metal ions, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy while maintaining the biocompatibility and stability required for biomedical applications.
Implementation Method 1
the chelating moieties are covalently bound to the polymer but the polymer is otherwise substantially non-cross-linked by the chelating moiety... the chelating agent either minimally or does not participate in cross-linking the polymer
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are biocompatible polymer conjugates comprising a biologically compatible polymer covalently bound to a biologically compatible chelator moiety, which in turn are optionally bound, reversibly, to pharmacologically active metal ions. The biologically compatible polymer may comprise of modified placental tissue grafts composed of at least one membrane, capable of recruiting stem cells in vivo and in vitro.