NU 2023-045

INVENTORS
John Rogers*
Colin Franz*
Yamin Zhang

SHORT DESCRIPTION
Northwestern and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab researchers have developed a novel, self-powered, bioresorbable drug delivery system that enables light-controlled, targeted drug release without the need for surgical removal post-treatment.

BACKGROUND
Current drug delivery systems often rely on passive mechanisms or require external power sources and surgical removal, limiting their practicality and application. This innovative technology offers a user-defined, programmable solution that naturally dissolves in the body, representing a significant advancement in drug delivery for a wide range of diseases.

ABSTRACT
This technology introduces a self-powered, light-controlled drug delivery device that is both biocompatible and bioresorbable, eliminating the need for batteries or surgical extraction. Utilizing a biodegradable reservoir and electrochemically active metal foils, the device enables controlled drug release through light exposure, presenting a significant advancement in pharmacological treatments.

APPLICATIONS

• Pharmacological treatment of chronic pain

• Localized drug delivery for post-surgical recovery

• Targeted therapy for infectious diseases

• Controlled drug release in cancer treatment

ADVANTAGES

• Bioresorbable, eliminating surgical removal needs

• Self-powered, requiring no external batteries

• Enables precise control over drug release timing

• Biocompatible, minimizing adverse body reactions

PUBLICATIONS

John Rogers et al., Self-powered, bioresorbable drug release systems, PNAS, 2023

IP STATUS

US Patent Pending