Biodegradable Polymer Encapsulation for Controlled Nitric Oxide Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for the controlled or sustained release of nitric oxide (NO) are impractical due to high reactivity and toxicity issues, particularly with diazeniumdiolates and zeolites, which face challenges in maintaining a stable and non-toxic delivery over extended periods.
Innovation Solution
The development of biodegradable polymer compositions that encapsulate nitric oxide-releasing materials, such as zeolites or metal-organic frameworks, which are electrospun into fibers to provide a controlled and sustained release of NO, utilizing porous structures to manage release rates and minimize toxicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If diazeniumdiolates are used for NO release, then NO generation is achieved, but leaching occurs and toxicity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a polymer matrix as an intermediary carrier that encapsulates diazeniumdiolate molecules. This polymer matrix serves as a mediator between the NO-releasing material and the biological system, preventing direct contact and leaching of the hydrophilic diazeniumdiolate while still enabling controlled NO release. The polymer matrix acts as a protective barrier that maintains the stability of the NO-donating material in vivo.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a polymer matrix that forms a flexible encapsulating shell around the diazeniumdiolate. This shell structure prevents the hydrophilic diazeniumdiolate from leaching into the surrounding environment while allowing controlled diffusion of NO gas. The polymer matrix provides a protective barrier that maintains the integrity of the NO-releasing system throughout the degradation period.
2Duration of action of moving object
If zeolites are used for NO storage and release, then sustained NO generation is achieved, but practical application as free powder is not feasible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system combining zeolite particles with a polymer matrix. The zeolite provides the NO storage and release functionality, while the polymer matrix provides the practical application benefits including biocompatibility, controlled degradation, and ease of formulation. This composite structure integrates the advantages of both materials while mitigating their individual limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a polymer matrix as a flexible encapsulating shell that incorporates zeolite particles within its structure. This shell formulation transforms the zeolite from a free powder into a manageable, biocompatible material that can be practically applied in medical devices. The polymer matrix provides the necessary flexibility and processability while maintaining zeolite's NO-release capability.
3Speed
If NO is delivered as a gas, then direct delivery is achieved, but high reactivity makes it impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces polymer matrices and zeolite structures as intermediary carriers that stabilize NO for controlled delivery. These intermediaries prevent the high reactivity issues of gaseous NO by providing a protected environment where NO is generated slowly and controllably, transforming the unstable gas into a stable, deliverable form that maintains biological activity.
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 prolonged and controlled release of NO, mimicking natural enzymatic release, reducing toxicity and improving biocompatibility, with potential applications in medical devices and therapies.
Implementation Method 1
The compositions include a biodegradable polymer and a nitric oxide-releasing material at least partially encapsulated by the biodegradable polymer
Implementation Method 2
Zeolites are the aluminosilicate members of the family of microporous solids known as 'molecular sieves.' With regard to in situ delivery of NO, they have shown exceptional promise for their ability to store and reversibly release NO from their microporous structure
Implementation Method 3
The development of biodegradable polymer compositions that encapsulate nitric oxide-releasing materials, such as zeolites or metal-organic frameworks, which are electrospun into fibers
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes compositions providing for controlled release of nitric oxide (NO) and methods for production of these compositions. In some embodiments, the compositions may include a biodegradable polymer and a nitric oxide-releasing material at least partially encapsulated by the biodegradable polymer. Nitric oxide-releasing materials may include, for example, diazeniumdiolates and nitric oxide contained within a zeolite, metal-organic framework or other porous material. In general, the compositions are spun into a porous fiber, which may be further annealed by heating in order to densify the fiber. Annealing may prolong the NO release profile. Medical devices containing the compositions described herein are also contemplated by the present disclosure. Medical devices include, for example, textiles, bandages and articles of clothing.