High aspect ratio template and method for producing same for central and peripheral nerve repair

US8075904B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · US
• The Regents of the University of California · US
• BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY · US

Inventors

• Jeff S. Sakamoto · Arcadia, US
• Mark H. Tuszynski · Village of La Jolla, US
• Thomas Gros · Houston, US
• Christina Chan · Catonsville, US
• Sumit Mehrotra · Redmond, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 2, 2008
• Grant date: Dec 13, 2011
• Expiry date: Oct 10, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61P25/00
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Millimeter to nano-scale structures manufactured using a multi-component polymer fiber matrix are disclosed. The use of dissimilar polymers allows the selective dissolution of the polymers at various stages of the manufacturing process. In one application, biocompatible matrixes may be formed with long pore length and small pore size. The manufacturing process begins with a first polymer fiber arranged in a matrix formed by a second polymer fiber. End caps may be attached to provide structural support and the polymer fiber matrix selectively dissolved away leaving only the long polymer fibers. These may be exposed to another product, such as a biocompatible gel to form a biocompatible matrix. The polymer fibers may then be selectively dissolved leaving only a biocompatible gel scaffold with the pores formed by the dissolved polymer fibers. The scaffolds may be used in, among other applications, the repair of central and peripheral nerves. Scaffolds for the repair of peripheral nerves may include a reservoir for the sustained release of nerve growth factor. The scaffolds may also include a multifunctional polyelectrolyte layer for the sustained release of nerve growth factor and enh…