Resorbable Polymer

About

About Researchers at Heriot-Watt have developed a resorbable polymer insert which is capable of timed release of bio-actives or other drug preparations to prevent, for example, tooth decay. The original project was designed to help reduce the incidence of dental caries by slow-releasing a topical dose of fluoride over a controlled period (days/ weeks ). Experimentation on this previously patented technology indicated a release rate of a few days and that with further development / investment this could be extended to a few weeks.   Key Benefits Easy to use, low cost Controlled release of bio-active ingredients with time Ability to tailor release rate / degradation of polymer support Uses commercially available materials   Applications Personal dental care (over the counter preparations) Wound management - slow release of antibacterial compunds Medical implants (eg, hernia implants, tissue scaffolds etc)   IP Status Part of Heriot-Watt "Open for Business" IP portfolio; this technology is offered on a "worldwide, non-exclusive, non-transferable royalty free basis only" and is subject to the terms and conditions of a signed "Easy Access IP" agreement between the licensor and the University. All Patent applications have lapsed and in addition to a recent PhD Thesis a large body of supporting experimental data (composition vs release rate etc.) is available on request.