Mechanical System for Gene Activation

Inventor: Biju Parekkadan

Awarded: February 2024

Summary:

The major innovation here is the first wireless controlled implant containing genetically modified stem cells that secrete a protein on-demand for a year. Inspired by the ancient art of cupping, the implant is activated to release protein therapy by mechanical suction that triggers a gene to turn on from under the skin.  Patients who receive this implant through a minimally invasive procedure would be envisioned to deliver protein therapy from their own body by the push of a  button using a smart phone app to activate the implant.

Market applications:

• Drug delivery system for hypoparathyroid patients.
• Drug delivery system for obesity patients.
• Drug delivery system for osteoporosis patients.
• Drug delivery system for autoimmune disease patients.