Design of Bio-Actuator for Medical Treatment Based on Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloy Helical Spring

Introduction FSMA (ferromagnetic shape memory alloy) materials provide fast speed of actuation using magnetic fields and large strain and stress capability. Technology description Researchers at the University of Washington have developed applications for FSMA devices in stents encapsulated with micro-bioactuators for removal of plaque accumulated in tube walls, not normally removed during a standard stent installation procedure. The helical spring removes plaque by oscillating at a frequency of ~7KHz without the use of magnetic fields that could be damaging to healthy tissue. In a second unique application, a nano FePd helix, modified with receptor ligands specific to cancer cell receptors binds the target tumor cells and destroys them by physical disruption when the nano helix is oscillated at modest frequencies, while not harming healthy cells. This exciting technology will destroy micrometastases that are not even detectable using standard imaging techniques. Business opportunity The use of FSMA actuators in stents represents a breakthrough in a market estimated to be worth approximately $4.5 Billion by 2009. The US cancer market includes ~10 million patients who could benefit from the cell disruption technology. Stage of development Concept Intellectual property position The technology is available for licensing. The UW is currently reviewing this technology for worldwide patent protection.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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