Exploring the Commercialization of a Smart Antifungal Wound Therapy
Abstract
The rate of invasive fungal wound infections has been increasing in both military and civilian traumatic wound injuries. These infections can cause severe complications, with up to a 40% mortality rate. With a rise in antifungal drug resistance and toxicity associated with these therapeutics, there is a critical need to develop effective antifungal wound treatments that can control unnecessary exposure to antifungal drugs. Hydrogels are a promising drug carrier for treating wounds, with the ability to encapsulate a range of therapeutics while maintaining a high water content which promotes wound healing. However, conventional antimicrobial hydrogels focus on treating bacterial infections and often exhibit uncontrolled release of antimicrobials. We have developed an antifungal hydrogel product that provides a fungi-triggered release of encapsulated antifungal therapeutics. This controlled release technology can eradicate fungal infections before the development of an invasive infection, all while limiting exposure to antifungal therapeutics. The hydrogel is fabricated using a polymer-peptide backbone that degrades in the presence of fungal enzymes. Encapsulated therapeutics are only released when the hydrogel is degraded by these fungal enzymes. Our previous Department of Defense funded work has thoroughly characterized the in vitro and ex vivo release behavior and antifungal efficacy of this product. We are currently examining the in vivo antifungal activity in a fungal wound infection model and exploring properties including storage stability. Here we propose to investigate the commercialization pathway for this product through the Innovation Corps @ Department of Defense program and establish a path for commercialization sustainability following the program. We have assembled a strong team of individuals with expertise in the product and entrepreneurship and industry-academic partnership experience. The team is committed to the commercialization of this product, which will greatly improve wound treatment for both defense and civilian populations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 31, 2020
- Source ID
- W911NF2010329
Entities
People
- Anita Shukla
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Brown University
- Office of the Secretary of Defense