Biodegradable implant for brain chemotherapy

2023: Product Announcement

On June 13, 2023, US researchers from the University of Connecticut reported on the development of a special ultrasound implant that helps chemotherapy affect the brain during the treatment of malignancies.

The main problem in the treatment of brain cancer is the blood-brain barrier, which protects nerve tissue from circulating microorganisms, toxins and other substances. This barrier serves as a highly selective filter, protecting the brain from harmful influences. At the same time, it prevents the penetration of drugs, which makes therapy difficult.

Glycine nanofibres

One way to overcome the blood-brain barrier is to use ultrasound. Implantable ultrasonic transmitters can be used for this. However, after chemotherapy, a second operation is required to remove such devices. A new technology proposed by specialists from the University of Connecticut solves the problem.

The developed implant contains crystals of the amino acid glycine, which have a strong piezoelectric effect. The design of the product uses biodegradable polymers to help extend the life of the ultrasonic emitter in the brain. The implant allows several chemotherapy sessions, after which it completely decomposes without the need for extraction. At the same time, according to the developers, the device has the same power as traditional implants, which must be removed promptly after use.

In tests in mice with brain tumors, the use of a new ultrasound device combined with chemotherapy doubled rodent survival compared to untreated individuals.^[1]

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