[TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITY 1995-022]

Anesthetic-Eluting Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)

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Description:
Researchers at Queen’s University have developed anesthetic-eluting PMMA for applications in localized pain management. Delivering the highest concentration of anesthetic in the first hour, drug release continues at a decreasing rate for periods up to 72 hours. The presence of the anesthetic does not change the hardening characteristics or result in deterioration of the mechanical properties and may increase the effectiveness of antibiotics such as Gentamicin.

Applications:
With over 60 years of clinical experience, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) continues to be one of the most commonly used materials in medicine. Possessing excellent biocompatibility, PMMA is used as cement for artificial joint and dental implant fixation, in spinal column reconstruction and stabilization, as ocular implants, in skull reconstruction and augmentation, and as a soft tissue filler in cosmetic surgery. When combined with antibiotics such as Gentamicin, PMMA beads, cements, and temporary implants are used as localized drug delivery devices to treat infected sites.

This invention represents a technology platform upon which a portfolio of anesthetic-eluting products based on PMMA could be developed to address currently unmet needs in localized pain management applications. Products could include cements or pastes, implants, injectable beads, and topical creams and patches.

Status of Development:
The technology is in an early development stage. Preliminary tests addressing formulation, mechanical properties, stability, and biocompatibility have been performed and support the concept of using PMMA for the targeted delivery of anesthetics. More complete, application-specific bench testing and pre-clinical studies will be required to commercialize this technology.

Status of Commercialization:
PARTEQ Innovations, the technology transfer arm of Queen’s University, is seeking industrial partners interested in licensing the intellectual property and/or supporting the continued development of the technology. US patents No. 6,355,705 and 6,713,527 have issued in 2002 and 2004, respectively.

Contact:
Jason Hendry
Manager, Commercial Development
P: (613) 533-2342 ext. 74780
F: (613) 533-6853
E: jhendry@parteqnnovations.com