PEG-PLA from PolySciTech used in development of ultrasound-triggered nanoparticles for controlled delivery of medicine to the brain

 

Nanoparticles have a wide variety of mechanisms of control, one of which is to dose ultrasound-sensitive particles systemically through the body and then utilize focused ultrasound to control their release at predetermined locations. Researchers at University of Utah used PEG-PLA (AK009) from PolySciTech division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to create nanoparticles which are sensitive to ultrasound. They tested these for delivery of propofol in select locations in the brains of non-human primates. This research holds promise for controlled delivery with extreme precision. Read more: Wilson, Matthew Gray, Taylor D. Webb, Henrik Odéen, and Jan Kubanek. "Remotely controlled drug release in deep brain regions of non-human primates." bioRxiv (2023): 2023-10. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.10.09.561539.abstract

“Many areas of science and medicine would benefit from selective release of drugs in specific regions of interest. Nanoparticle drug carriers activated by focused ultrasound—remotely applied, depth-penetrating energy—may provide such selective interventions. Here, we developed stable, ultrasound-responsive nanoparticles that can be used to release drugs effectively and safely in non-human primates. The nanoparticles were used to release propofol in deep brain visual regions. The release reversibly modulated the subjects’ visual choice behavior and was specific to the targeted region and to the released drug. Gadolinium-enhanced MRI imaging suggested an intact blood-brain barrier. Blood draws showed normal clinical chemistry and hematology. In summary, this study provides a safe and effective approach to release drugs on demand in selected deep brain regions at levels sufficient to modulate behavior. Keywords: Drug release, ultrasound, nanoparticle carriers, pharmacomodulation, neuromodulation”

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