Process of Fiber Fabrication by Intrefacial Polyelectrolyte Complexation and the Encapsulation of Biological Materials Within Said Fibers

This invention includes a method of producing drug-loaded fibers using interfacial polyelectrolyte complexation for tissue engineering. Fibers are produced by pulling from the interface between two polyelectrolyte solutions at room temperature. Drugs, proteins, cells, genetic materials and bioactive agents are encapsulated into the fibers by dispersion of the bio-agents into the polyelectrolyte solution. These fibers can be further processed into knitted, braided, woven and non-woven fibers. Studies conducted by the inventor show high encapsulation efficiency, sustained release kinetics, and the capacity to retain the bioactivity of the encapsulated component. Background Within the field of tissue engineering, biodegradable polymeric scaffolds are used for tissue regeneration. Cells attach to the scaffolds and proliferate, differentiate if necessary, and develop into tissue materials. So far most scaffolds provide structural support and framework for tissue development. Optimal tissue engineering requires a scaffold that can provide cues and signal molecules such as NA, growth factors, adhesion molecules, and differentiation factors to assist the growth of the tissue. Precise control of tissue growth can be achieved if the scaffold itself contains molecules. Various methods of encapsulating bioactive agents into fiber scaffolds have been investigated. However most polymer processes for fiber fabrication involve the use of heat, denaturing organic solvents, extreme pH, toxic cross-linking agents which are all detrimental to the incorporation of a biological component. This invention provides a novel method of encapsulation at room temperature. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) This invention has the potential clinical utility in the culture and delivery of stem cells and within the tissue engineering niche. The total market for stem cell technology will total to $6.5 billion by 2008. Furthermore the market potential for tissue engineered products is $ 80 million with a growth rate in expenditures of 24% since 1991. This far five percent of all biotechnology companies are involved in tissue engineering Patent (Set) WO 2006/105441

Inventor(s): Leong, Kam W

Type of Offer: Licensing



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