PLGA from Akina, Inc. used in development of multi-stage drug-delivery system for treatment of gastric ulcers

 

Researchers at Pusan National University, Daegu Catholic University, National University of Medical Sciences (Pakistan), and Hasanuddin University used PLGA (AP037 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP037#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to create particles for drug-delivery to gastric region for treatment of H. Pylori infection. This research holds promise to treat difficult bacterial infections. Read more: Kim, Hyunwoo, Dongmin Kwak, Juho Lee, Minjeong Kim, Muneeb Ullah, Md Lukman Hakim, Muhammad Naeem et al. "Polydopamine-mediated multi-stage delivery for precise local therapy of Helicobacter pylori–infected gastric ulcers." Journal of Controlled Release (2026): 114869. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168365926002713

“The effective treatment of Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric ulcers requires precise local delivery of antibiotics to the deep-seated pathogens within the inflamed tissue. However, the complex gastric environment poses significant biological barriers, necessitating distinct functional requirements for efficient mucus penetration and robust bacterial adhesion. In this study, we developed polydopamine-functionalized and clarithromycin-loaded nanoparticles designed for a sequential multi-stage delivery cascade. The polydopamine-mediated interface provided colloidal stability in the acidic gastric lumen, reduced premature drug leakage, and facilitated mucus penetration by minimizing interactions with the mucin network. At the infection site, the chemical properties of the functionalized surface facilitated robust and ligand-independent adhesion to Helicobacter pylori. In vivo investigations using a murine model revealed nanoparticle penetration of up to 400 μm into the ulcerated tissue. This precise targeting yielded approximately 99.9% bacterial reduction, significantly accelerating ulcer healing at an antibiotic dose 10-fold lower than that used in conventional systemic therapy. These findings establish the polydopamine-mediated delivery cascade as a promising platform for the precise local treatment of Helicobacter pylori-associated inflammatory gastric diseases.”

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mPEG-PLGA from PolySciTech: Akina used in development of nanoparticle-based treatment of psoriasis

 

Researchers at Tongji University and Adelaide University used mPEG-PLGA (AK026, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK026#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to create nanoparticle loaded gel formulation for delivery of apremilast as part of psoriasis treatment. This research holds promise to provide for improved therapy against this chronic, immune-mediated skin disease. Read More: Zhao, Zihan, Letao Xu, Yun Liu, Xing Wang, Yue Hui, Yilong Fan, Yuling Shi, and Chun-Xia Zhao. "Topical delivery of high-drug-loading nanoparticle gels for psoriasis treatment." Journal of Nanobiotechnology 24, no. 1 (2026): 252. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12951-026-04120-y

“Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disease characterised by epidermal hyperplasia and compromised barrier integrity, which significantly complicates effective drug delivery. Topical drug delivery (TDD) offers a promising, non-invasive, and patient-centric alternative therapy for its management. However, the efficacy of TDD is constrained by the markedly thickened stratum corneum in psoriatic lesion skin, which acts as a formidable barrier to effective drug penetration. In this work, we developed a high-drug-loading TDD system for the highly effective topical delivery of apremilast (APR), an FDA-approved oral treatment for psoriasis. Using a sequential nanoprecipitation method, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and polymer nanoparticles (PNPs) loaded with 40% APR, defined as the weight ratio of APR relative to the total nanoparticle formulation, were synthesized and embedded into Carbopol 940 gel for enhanced skin compatibility and topical application. Ex vivo studies revealed enhanced intradermal retention of LNPs Carbopol® 940 gel (LNPG) and greater subdermal accumulation of PNPs Carbopol® 940 gel (PNPG). In an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model, treatment with both formulations resulted in marked clinical improvements, including reduced PASI scores, decreased epidermal thickness, and reduced spleen size. Furthermore, both LNPG and PNPG systems significantly downregulated psoriasis-associated cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL8, and CCL20). These findings demonstrate the robust therapeutic potential of high-drug-loading NP gels and highlight their promise as a patient-friendly TDD platform for psoriasis and other dermatological conditions with a compromised barrier function.”

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PLCL from PolySciTech used for development of sprayable solution to prevent surgical adhesion

 

Post-surgical adhesion occurs when fibrous bridges connect adjacent surfaces after surgery creating a painful situation for the patient and can potentially lead to other complications. Researchers at University of Maryland, Children’s National Medical Center, and U.S. Army DEVCOM used PLCL’s (AP151 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP151#h, AP179 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP179#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) were combined with PEG and solvent to develop a sprayable system to prevent surgical adhesions. This research holds promise to provide for prevention of surgical problems. Read more: Morris III, Robert J., Tejaswi Nori, Alex I. Halpern, Hannah LaPadula, Arthur V. Cresce, Sarah L. Wright, Anthony D. Sandler, and Peter Kofinas. "Sprayable Polymer Blends With Short‐Chain Surface Segregation for Preventing Postoperative Abdominal Adhesions." Advanced Healthcare Materials (2026): e05289. https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/adhm.202505289

“Adhesions are common post-surgical complications where fibrous tissue bridges adjacent surfaces following tissue injury. Although Seprafilm is a widely used clinical prophylactic, it often proves inadequate due to suboptimal mechanical stability and applicability. Solution Blow Spinning (SBS) enables the formation of polymer fibers tailored to complex geometries with excellent tissue adherence. Poly(D,L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) polymer has shown promise as an adhesions barrier but remains inconsistent because of its inherent tackiness and hydrophobicity. Here, high molecular weight (HMW) PLCL (40 or 80 kDa) was blended with low molecular weight (LMW) polyethylene glycol (PEG, 1 or 3 kDa). In vitro studies confirmed that PLCL/PEG fibers achieved tissue adhesion strengths above 10 kPa and sustained mechanical performance throughout clinically relevant degradation timelines. Blending PEG changes the surface composition of the spray-deposited mats, substantially improving the hydrophilic character and lowering protein adherence in vitro. In a murine cecal ligation model, the PLCL/PEG blends demonstrated significantly reduced adhesion severity and incidence compared to both untreated and Seprafilm-treated controls.”

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Open Position at Akina: Webmaster

 Akina Webmaster

Responsibilities:
To provide maintenance, updates, and upgrades for Akina, Inc. owned websites, both external and internal. Interface with external network support contractor to solve IT related issues. Support relevant database operations including sales, billing, and inventory control as it relates to interface with external accounting software, external logistics software, and other operations. Work is to be performed on site at Akina’s location in West Lafayette, IN during normal business hours (8AM-5PM, Mon-Fri).

Requirements:
A strong background in relevant coding languages (php, javascript, html), database management (mysql), and linux-based server management is required. A minimum of a bachelor's degree in field specific education is required and relevant work experience is considered a plus.

To apply:
If you are interested please send your resume to General Manager, John Garner jg@akinainc.com

Pay:
$40.00/hr

See more https://akinainc.com/employment.php

PLGA-FKR648 from PolySciTech used in development of nanoparticles for colorectal cancer therapy

 

Colorectal cancer is an extremely common form of cancer which often leads to death in advanced stages. Researchers at Universidade do Porto used PLGA-FKR648 (AV015, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AV015#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop NIR traceable nanoparticles for treatment of colorectal cancer. This research holds promise for improved therapies in the future. Read more: Baião, Ana, Flávia Castro, Juliana Viegas, Andreia S. Barros, Sofia Dias, Carla Oliveira, and Bruno Sarmento. "Targeted nanoparticle delivery of irinotecan enhances tumor response to PD-L1 blockade in colorectal cancer." Journal of Controlled Release (2026): 114609. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168365926000106

“Abstract: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer mortality, with limited therapeutic options in advanced stages. CD44v6, a splice variant overexpressed in CRC, promotes tumor progression and immune evasion, representing a relevant target for selective drug delivery. In this work, irinotecan-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles functionalized with CD44v6 ligands (Iri@NP-v6) were developed to improve irinotecan delivery and therapeutic responses in CRC. Iri@NP-v6 showed controlled physicochemical properties, high drug loading, and sustained release. In vitro, targeted NPs achieved selective uptake and enhanced cytotoxicity in CD44v6+ CRC cell lines. In immune-stromal co-culture spheroids, Iri@NP-v6 combined with anti-PD-L1 reduced viability, promoted Th1-associated cytokines, and limited tumor-supportive MCP-1 production. While NP monotherapy induced mixed inflammatory signals, PD-L1 blockade redirected this response toward a Th1-dominated profile. In immunocompetent mice with MC38 tumors, combination therapy significantly reduced tumor burden and increased CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltration without systemic toxicity. Importantly, free irinotecan triggered broad systemic inflammation, whereas NP-based delivery limited systemic cytokine release while maintaining intratumoral immune activation. These findings demonstrate that CD44v6-targeted irinotecan NPs in combination with PD-L1 blockade, reshape the CRC immune microenvironment while reducing systemic inflammation, supporting their potential as a tumor-selective chemo-immunotherapy platform. Graphical abstract: This study shows that specially designed nanoparticles can target colorectal cancer cells and deliver chemotherapy more effectively. When combined with immunotherapy, the treatment decreases tumor volume, boosts immune response, and causes no major side effects in mice. These results suggest a promising new approach to improve cancer treatment using targeted nanomedicine.”

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PLGA from PolySciTech used in the controlled delivery of Chlorohexidine as part of developing antibacterial ear-tags for farm animal tracking.

 

In addition to medical technology one of the areas where a substantial quantity of humanitarian good can be achieved is in the field of improving food production. Reports suggest that infection rates following ear tagging may range from 10 to 30% in commercial operations. One means to prevent this is to have controlled release of an anti-infective agent. Researchers at University of Arizona, University of Prince Edward Island, and University of Montreal used PLGA (AP293, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP293#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop an anti-infective coating for ear-tags. This research holds promise to improve the sustainability of the food supply by reducing loss. Read more: Cartmell, Christopher, Emad Naseri, Russell G. Kerr, Daniel Hurnik, Chelsea Martin, and Ali Ahmadi. "Biopierces: drug-eluting ear tags for infection prevention in animal tagging." Frontiers in Veterinary Science 12 (2026): 1696488. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12964366/


“Ear tagging is a routine practice in livestock management, but it can be associated with bacterial colonization and infection at puncture sites. This study evaluated drug-eluting ear tags (Biopierce), incorporating chlorhexidine (CHX) in a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) matrix, due to their ability to reduce microbial burden and support wound healing. Biopierce eartags were fabricated by coating commercial ear tags with CHX–PLGA and compared to untreated controls. In vitro, Biopierces demonstrated a rapid burst release of CHX (~75% within 2 h), plateauing by 8 h, with eluates showing strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus in disk and tag diffusion assays. In vivo, five adult commercial boars each received one Biopierce and one control tag, with bacterial colonization assessed at 3, 7, 14, and 28 days using MALDI-TOF identification and semi-quantitative scoring. The Biopierce tags significantly reduced bacterial load, halving the prevalence of heavy contamination (27% vs. 12.6%, p = 0.0015) and doubling the prevalence of scant growth (9% vs. 21%, p = 0.017). Mean bacterial load scores were significantly lower with Biopierces (2.25 vs. 2.73, p < 0.05), and regression modeling confirmed a 20.1% reduction (p < 0.001). Histopathology on Day 28 showed trends toward reduced swelling (+45.2% vs. +57.6%) and increased full epithelialization (66% vs. 37%), though these did not reach statistical significance due to the small sample size. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Biopierce eartags provide localized CHX delivery that reduces bacterial colonization at tagging sites and may promote improved healing, supporting their potential as a practical infection and inflammation prevention strategy in livestock management. Keywords: animal tagging, biomaterials, drug eluting constructs, infection, piercing”

PCL from PolySciTech used in development of pH responsive nanocarriers for arthritis treatment

 

Psoralen is a naturally occurring furanocoumarin which can interact with DNA chains and is highly light sensitive. Due to it’s interactions with DNA, any medical use of it must be carefully localized to prevent unwanted side effects. Researchers at China Three Gorges University used PCL (AP257, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP257#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop pH sensitive nanocarriers which deliver psoralen to the site of arthritis. This research holds promise to develop a treatment for this debilitating disease. Read more: Zhu, Lixian, Zhijie Gao, Tengyue Zhang, Hechao Zhao, Dexian Zeng, and Yanhua Wang. "Psoralen-loaded polycaprolactone microspheres: A pH-responsive drug carrier for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis." Materials Chemistry and Physics 354 (2026): 132185. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0254058426001768

“Developing novel drug carriers for delivery of psoralen (PSO) is crucial to inhibit the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This work aims to develop PSO-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres through a single emulsion solvent evaporation route, improving the bioavailability and controllable release of PSO. The resulting PCL@PSO microspheres are characterized by multiple physicochemical techniques. Results show the loading of PSO onto PCL, via surface adsorption, increases the size and specific surface area. Accordingly, the encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of PCL@PSO microspheres are (87.77 ± 0.07)% and (12.28 ± 0.01)%, respectively. Strikingly, such microspheres exhibit pH-responsive drug kinetics, predominantly releasing PSO in alkaline environments in contrast with neutral or acidic conditions. This release pattern, mostly caused by diffusion, is conducive to inhibit inflammatory response whilst promote osteanagenesis in bone microenvironment. Cell experiments confirm PCL@PSO microspheres are cytocompatible with BMSCs cell but strongly toxic to RBL-2H3 cell. Mechanistically, mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, as evidenced by the up-regulation of pro-apoptosis proteins such as Caspase3, Cyto-c and Bax, is activated by PCL@PSO via increased ROS and reduced mitochondria membrane potentials. Further, the up-regulation of APC and LATS1, and the down-regulation of OIP5 are contributed to the apoptosis of RBL-2H3 cell. Moreover, PCL@PSO could down-regulate the expression of histamine receptor HRH1 in RBL-2H3 cell, thereby inhibiting inflammation expansion. However, the study is limited by the absence of in vivo animal validation, and the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. In particular, the upstream regulatory pathways governing ROS generation have yet to be comprehensively investigated. Conclusively, it is feasible to use PCL@PSO microspheres as candidate micro-carriers to deliver PSO, terminally inhibiting inflammatory response whilst promoting osteanagenesis, especially for individuals suffered from rheumatoid arthritis.”

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