Intranasal stimulation for enhanced release of ocular mucins and other tear proteins
US10426958B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 1, 2016 |
| Grant date | Oct 1, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 5, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2562/04
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Described here are devices and methods for increasing ocular mucin and other tear protein release using intranasally delivered electrical stimulation. Generally, the devices may deliver electrical stimulation to the nasal mucosa. Intranasal stimulation may trigger degranulation of conjunctival goblet cells, which in turn releases secretory mucins into the tear fluid. The intranasal stimulation may also trigger release of lysozyme, lactoferrin, and other tear proteins into the aqueous layer of the tear film. The methods may further comprise obtaining feedback relating to the efficacy of the delivered electrical stimulation by measuring impedance or an electromyogram (EMG) signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.