Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080280360 | Method for Producing Biomaterial Scaffolds - The present invention provides a multilayer scaffold for tissue engineering. The scaffold comprises at least a first layer comprised of a polymer having a pattern of microchannels therein; and at least a second layer comprised of a polymer having a pattern of microchannels therein. The first and second layers are joined together (preferably by lamination) and the channels are connected for the circulation of fluid through the layers. The scaffold is coated with bacterial cellulose. The scaffold may further include a mammalian cell. | 11-13-2008 |
20080293919 | Fibrous Protein Fusions and Use Thereof in the Formation of Advanced Organic/Inorganic Composite Materials - The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation. | 11-27-2008 |
20090202614 | METHODS FOR STEPWISE DEPOSITION OF SILK FIBROIN COATINGS - The invention provides a method for the controlled assembly of layered silk fibroin coatings using aqueous silk fibroin material. The methods described herein can be used to coat substrates of any material, shape, or size. Importantly, the described methods enable control of the biomaterial surface chemistry, thickness, morphology and structure using layered thin film coatings, or bulk coatings. Furthermore, the methods can be performed in all water and do not require intensive chemical processing enabling controlled entrapment of labile molecules such as, drugs, cytokines, and even cells or viruses to generate functional coatings that can be used in a variety of applications. | 08-13-2009 |
20090232963 | DIAZONIUM SALT MODIFICATION OF SILK POLYMER - A method for modifying silk polymer by coupling a chemical moiety to a tyrosine residue of a silk polymer is described herein for the purpose of altering the physical properties of the silk protein. Thus, silk proteins with desired physical properties can be produced by the methods described herein. These methods are particularly useful when the introduction of cells to a mammal is desired, since modifications to the silk protein affect the physical properties and thus the adhesion, metabolic activity and cell morphology of the desired cells. The silk protein can be modified to produce, or modify, a structure that provides an optimal environment for the desired cells. | 09-17-2009 |
20090298139 | Method for Polymer Synthesis Using Microfluidic Enzymatic Cascade - The present invention discloses a method for producing polymers in a microscale device. The system utilizes a symmetrically branched system of microchannels interconnecting a plurality of loading decks and re-action chambers. The fluid flow is manipulated by the placement of capillary check valves, mixing areas, and microcomb filters. The system provides for cascading enzymatic biosynthesis pathways wherein any variety of enzymes and reactants can be introduced into the system to produce a final product. | 12-03-2009 |
20100028451 | SILK MICROSPHERES FOR ENCAPSULATION AND CONTROLLED RELEASE - A method was developed to prepare silk fibroin microspheres using lipid vesicles as templates to efficiently load therapeutic agents in active form for controlled release. The lipids are subsequently removed through the use of a dehydration agent, such as methanol or sodium chloride, resulting in β-sheet structure dominant silk microsphere structures having about 2 μm in diameter. The therapeutic agent can be entrapped in the silk microspheres and used in pharmaceutical formulations for controlled-release treatments. | 02-04-2010 |
20100046902 | BIOPOLYMER PHOTONIC CRYSTALS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer photonic crystal includes providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate, casting the matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer film. A surface of the film is formed with a nanopattern, or a nanopattern is machined on a surface of the film. In another embodiment, a plurality of biopolymer films is stacked together. A photonic crystal is also provided that is made of a biopolymer and has a nanopatterned surface. In another embodiment, the photonic crystal includes a plurality of nanopatterned films that are stacked together. | 02-25-2010 |
20100055438 | CONCENTRATED AQUEOUS SILK FIBROIN SOLUTION AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides for concentrated aqueous silk fibroin solutions and an all-aqueous mode for preparation of concentrated aqueous fibroin solutions that avoids the use of organic solvents, direct additives, or harsh chemicals. The invention further provides for the use of these solutions in production of materials, e.g., fibers, films, foams, meshes, scaffolds and hydrogels. | 03-04-2010 |
20100063404 | BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optical waveguide includes providing a biopolymer, unwinding the biopolymer progressively to extract individual biopolymer fibers, and putting the unwound fibers under tension. The tensioned fibers are then cast in a different polymer to form a biopolymer optical waveguide that guides light due to the difference in indices of refraction between the biopolymer and the different polymer. The optical fibers may be used in biomedical applications and can be inserted in the body as transmissive media. Printing techniques may be used to manufacture the biopolymer optical waveguides. | 03-11-2010 |
20100065784 | ELECTROACTIVE BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL AND ELECTRO-OPTICAL DEVICES AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optical device includes providing a polymer, providing a substrate, casting the polymer on the substrate, and enzymatically polymerizing an organic compound to generate a conducting polymer between the provided polymer and the substrate. The polymer may be a biopolymer such as silk and may be modified using organic compounds such as tyrosines to provide a molecular-level interface between the provided bulk biopolymer of the biopolymer optical device and a substrate or other conducting layer via a tyrosine-enzyme polymerization. The enzymatically polymerizing may include catalyzing the organic compound with peroxidase enzyme reactions. The result is a carbon-carbon conjugated backbone that provides polymeric “wires” for use in polymer and biopolymer optical devices. An all organic biopolymer electroactive material is thereby provided that provides optical functions and features. | 03-18-2010 |
20100068740 | MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE WITH A CYLINDRICAL MICROCHANNEL AND A METHOD FOR FABRICATING SAME - A method of manufacturing a microfluidic device having at least one cylindrical microchannel includes providing a substrate, casting an uncured polymer matrix solution onto the substrate, embedding an elongated rod in the uncured polymer matrix solution, curing the polymer matrix solution to form a solidified body, and extracting the elongated rod to form the cylindrical microchannel in the solidified body. In another embodiment, the method includes forming an optical feature on a surface of the microfluidic device. A microfluidic device is also provided, the device including a polymer body, and at least one cylindrical microchannel in the polymer body, the cylindrical microchannel having a diameter between approximately 40 ?m and 250 ?m, inclusive. An additional microfluidic device is provided that functions as an optofluidic spectrometer. The optofluidic spectrometer includes a polymer body, a diffraction grating integrated within the polymer body, and a cylindrical microchannel behind the diffraction grating on the polymer body. | 03-18-2010 |
20100070068 | BIOPOLYMER SENSOR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer sensor including providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, adding a biological material in the biopolymer matrix, providing a substrate, casting the matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer sensor on the substrate. A biopolymer sensor is also provided that includes a solidified biopolymer film with an embedded biological material. | 03-18-2010 |
20100096763 | BIOPOLYMER OPTOFLUIDIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optofluidic device including providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate, casting the biopolymer matrix solution on the substrate, embedding a channel mold in the biopolymer matrix solution, drying the biopolymer matrix solution to solidify biopolymer optofluidic device, and extracting the embedded channel mold to provide a fluidic channel in the solidified biopolymer optofluidic device. In accordance with another aspect, an optofluidic device is provided that is made of a biopolymer and that has a channel therein for conveying fluid. | 04-22-2010 |
20100120116 | NANOPATTERNED BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a nanopatterned biopolymer optical device includes providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate with a nanopatterned surface, casting the biopolymer matrix solution on the nanopatterned surface of the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer film on the substrate, where the solidified biopolymer film is formed with a surface having a nanopattern thereon. In another embodiment, the method also includes annealing the solidified biopolymer film. A nanopatterned biopolymer optical device includes a solidified biopolymer film with a surface having a nanopattern is also provided. | 05-13-2010 |
20100178304 | METHOD FOR SILK FIBROIN GELATION USING SONICATION - This invention provides for a process of rapidly forming silk fibroin gelation through ultrasonication. Under the appropriate conditions, gelation can be controlled to occur within two hours after the ultrasonication treatment. Biological materials, including viable cells, or therapeutic agents can be encapsulated in the hydrogels formed from the process and be used as delivery vehicles. | 07-15-2010 |
20100191328 | TISSUE-ENGINEERED SILK ORGANS - This invention relates to a lamellae tissue layer, comprising a grooved silk fibroin substrate comprising tissue-specific cells. The silk fibroin substrates provides an excellent means of controlling and culturing cell and extracellular matrix development. A multitude of lamellae tissue layers can be used to create a tissue-engineered organ, such as a tissue-engineered cornea. The tissue-engineered organ is non-immunogenic and biocompatible. | 07-29-2010 |
20100196447 | SILK BIOMATERIALS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The present invention provides an all-aqueous process and composition for production of silk biomaterials, e.g., fibers, films, foams and mats. In the process, at least one biocompatible polymer, such as poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) (a well-documented biocompatible material), was blended with the silk protein prior to processing e.g., electrospinning. We discovered that this step avoids problems associated with conformational transitions of fibroin during solubilization and reprocessing from aqueous solution which lead to embrittled materials. Moreover, the process avoids the use of organic solvents that can pose problems when the processed biomaterials are exposed to cells in vitro or in vivo. | 08-05-2010 |
20100203226 | METHOD FOR FORMING INORGANIC COATINGS - The present invention is directed to a method for forming an inorganic coating on a protein template. The method comprises contacting the template with an anionic polymer interface followed by an inorganic material for a sufficient period of time to allow mineralization of the inorganic material thus forming an inorganic coating on the template. Preferably, the coating is aligned. | 08-12-2010 |
20100209405 | SERICIN EXTRACTED SILKWORM FIBROIN FIBERS - The present invention provides a novel silk-fiber-based matrix having a wire-rope geometry for use in producing a ligament or tendon, particularly an anterior cruciate ligament, ex vivo for implantation into a recipient in need thereof. The invention further provides the novel silk-fiber-based matrix which is seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form a ligament or tendon ex vivo. Also disclosed is a bioengineered ligament comprising the silk-fiber-based matrix seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form the ligament or tendon. A method for producing a ligament or tendon ex vivo comprising the novel silk-fiber-based matrix is also disclosed. | 08-19-2010 |
20100279112 | SILK FIBROIN MATERIALS AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides processes for producing porous silk fibroin scaffold material. The porous silk fibroin scaffold can be used for tissue engineering. The porosity of the silk fibroin scaffolds described herein can be adjusted as to mimic the gradient of densities found in natural tissue. Accordingly, methods for engineering of 3-dimensional tissue, e.g. bone and cartilage, using the silk fibroin scaffold material are also provided. | 11-04-2010 |
20110046686 | 3-DIMENSIONAL SILK HYDROXYAPATITE COMPOSITIONS - Described herein are methods and compositions comprising a mixture of silk polymer and hydroxyapatite. The methods described herein can be used to prepare a mixture of silk polymer and hydroxyapatite and further provide mixtures that can be molded into a desired shape. Also encompassed herein are compositions comprising a mixture of silk polymer and hydroxyapatite having a desired shape, which can further be implanted, for example, to facilitate bone healing or tooth structure or support. Such compositions can also include agents, such as therapeutic agents, or cells. | 02-24-2011 |
20110076384 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING BIOMATERIAL STRUCTURES - A system and method for making a biomaterial device includes a support structure providing a shape for a biomaterial device. At least one applicator has a supply of biomaterial solution and is positioned along the support structure. The at least one applicator forms a biomaterial fiber by applying shear force to the biomaterial solution and delivering the biomaterial fiber to the support structure. A controller causes relative movement between the support structure and the at least one applicator, and the biomaterial fiber is arranged on the support structure according to the relative movement to form the biomaterial device. The biomaterial may be silk fibroin which may be wound onto a reciprocating and rotating mandrel. Control over the properties of the biomaterial device is achieved through appropriate selection of material processing, winding strategy, and post-winding processing. | 03-31-2011 |
20110109910 | NON-INVASIVE OPTICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOMATERIAL MINERALIZATION - In one aspect, the present invention generally provides methods for characterizing mineralization of a material, e.g., a biomaterial, by illuminating the material with radiation and analyzing radiation scattered from the material in response to the illumination. For example, in some embodiments, a material can be illuminated with polarized radiation at a plurality of wavelengths and the elastically scattered radiation corresponding to two or more of those wavelengths can be collected at two polarizations: one parallel and the other perpendicular to the illumination polarization. A differential intensity of the scattered radiation at the two polarizations can be analyzed as a function of wavelength to obtain information regarding the morphology of mineral deposits in the sample. Further, the total scattered radiation can be analyzed to derive information regarding the level of mineralization. | 05-12-2011 |
20110135697 | EDIBLE HOLOGRAPHIC SILK PRODUCTS - The present invention relates to edible silk holographic elements and methods for making the same. Edible silk holographic elements are used to label pharmaceuticals and foods, or may be formulated to deliver pharmaceuticals. | 06-09-2011 |
20110152214 | SILK POLYMER-BASED ADENOSINE RELEASE: THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL FOR EPILEPSY - This invention relates to sustained release formulations comprising silk fibroin biopolymer and adenosine, that provide for sustained, focal release of adenosine at therapeutic levels for the treatment of epilepsy and/or the prevention of epileptogenesis. An embodiment provides for a silk-based, adeno sine-releasing implant that alleviates seizures or prevents epileptogenesis. Another embodiment provides for a method of treating epilepsy or preventing epileptogenesis comprising focally administering adenosine in a sustained-release, silk-based adenosine delivery system. | 06-23-2011 |
20110171239 | pH INDUCED SILK GELS AND USES THEREOF - This invention provides for compositions, methods and devices for rapidly converting silk fibroin solution into a silk fibroin gel using direct application of voltage, in a process called electrogelation. The silk fibroin gel may be reversibly converted back to liquid form by applying reverse voltage or may be converted further to β-sheet structure by applying shear force or other treatments. The electrogelated silk may be used as an extracted bulk gel, spray or stream of gel for processing into materials or devices, or may be used as silk gel coating to devices. Active agents may be embedded in the silk gel for various medical applications. This invention also provides for methods and compositions for preparing adhesive silk pH-gels. For example, the method comprises reducing pH level of a silk fibroin solution to increase the bulk or local proton concentration of the silk fibroin solution, thereby forming adhesive silk gels. | 07-14-2011 |
20110189773 | SILK FIBROIN FIBER BUNDLES FOR MATRICES IN TISSUE ENGINEERING - The present invention provides a novel silk-fiber-based matrix having a wire-rope geometry for use in producing a ligament or tendon, particularly an anterior cruciate ligament, ex vivo for implantation into a recipient in need thereof. The invention further provides the novel silk-fiber-based matrix which is seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form a ligament or tendon ex vivo. Also disclosed is a bioengineered ligament comprising the silk-fiber-based matrix seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form the ligament or tendon. A method for producing a ligament or tendon ex vivo comprising the novel silk-fiber-based matrix is also disclosed. | 08-04-2011 |
20110206772 | POLYSACCHARIDE COMPOSITION AND METHODS OF ISOLATION OF THE EMULSION STABILIZING CATIONIC POLYELECTROLYTIC POLYSACCHARIDE - The present invention relates to purification and use of a novel emulsion stabilizing polysaccharide. In particular, a polyelectrolyte exopolysaccharide with high molecular weight comprising a high molecular weight polymer with a tri-saccharide repeating unit is disclosed. In one aspect of the invention, methods are directed to isolating and purifying a high molecular weight exopolysaccharide (EPS) from a cell supernatant. In another aspect, methods are disclosed for isolating a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and a high molecular weight | 08-25-2011 |
20110275788 | FIBROUS PROTEIN FUSIONS AND USE THEREOF IN THE FORMATION OF ADVANCED ORGANIC/INORGANIC COMPOSITE MATERIALS - The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation. | 11-10-2011 |
20120034291 | NANOIMPRINTING OF SILK FIBROIN STRUCTURES FOR BIOMEDICAL AND BIOPHOTONIC APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides for photonic nanoimprinted silk fibroin-based materials and methods for making same, comprising embossing silk fibroin-based films with photonic nanometer scale patterns. In addition, the invention provides for processes by which the silk fibroin-based films can be nanoimprinted at room temperature, by locally decreasing the glass sition temperature of the silk film Such nanoimprinting process increases high throughput and improves potential for incorporation of silk-based photonics into biomedical and other optical devices. | 02-09-2012 |
20120070427 | VORTEX-INDUCED SILK FIBROIN GELATION FOR ENCAPSULATION AND DELIVERY - The present invention provided for a novel process of forming silk fibroin gels, and controlling the rate of β-sheet formation and resulting hydrogelation kinetics, by vortex treatment of silk fibroin solution. In addition, the vortex treatment of the present invention provides a silk fibroin gel that may be reversibly shear-thinned, enabling the use of these approach for precise control of silk self-assembly, both spatially and temporally. Active agents, including biological materials, viable cells or therapeutic agents, can be encapsulated in the hydrogels formed from the processes, and be used as delivery vehicles. Hence, the present invention provide for methods for silk fibroin gelation that are useful for biotechnological applications such as encapsulation and delivery of active agents, cells, and bioactive molecules. | 03-22-2012 |
20120076771 | SURFACE MODIFICATION OF SILK FIBROIN MATRICES WITH POLY(ETHYLENE GLYCOL) USEFUL AS ANTI-ADHESION BARRIERS AND ANTI-THROMBOTIC MATERIALS - The present invention provides compositions and methods for the production of silk fibroin matrices surface-PEGylated on one or more surfaces. Such surface-PEGylated silk fibroin matrices can be used in biomedical applications, such as anti-adhesive and anti-thrombosis materials. Silk matrices may be surface-PEGylated, for example, by a reaction with a functional group-activated PEG. Controlling the degree of PEGylation on surface of silk fibroin matrix can regulate both the degradation rate of the silk matrix, and the differentiated adhesion of cells or differentiated adsorption of proteins on the surface of the silk matrix. The present invention also provides for silk fibroin matrices having one or more surfaces possessing differentiated adhesion properties, which allows for tissue integration on the adherent side and inhibition of tissue adhesion to the opposing tissues or organs. Embedding active agents in silk fibroin matrices provides more benefits, such as promoting tissue ingrowth on the adherent side of the matrix. | 03-29-2012 |
20120123519 | TUBULAR SILK COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Described are tubular silk fibroin compositions and methods for their manufacture and use. Tubular compositions as described herein can be produced in a range of high burst strengths, can easily be made in a range of inner diameters, can be derivatized with functional moieties, and can be produced in a range of permeabilities suitable for particularized uses. In one aspect, the tubular compositions can be used in the repair or replacement of damaged or diseased blood vessels, including, but not limited to vessels smaller than about 6 mm. | 05-17-2012 |
20120129255 | FUNCTIONALIZATION OF SILK MATERIAL BY AVIDIN-BIOTIN INTERACTION - The present invention provides for compositions and methods of linking silk fibroin to active agents through the specific interaction between avidin and biotin, providing for functionalization of silk-based protein biomaterials. An avidin- or biotin-modified silk is a biomaterial platform for functionalization with a variety of correspondingly linked active agents, such as antibodies and growth factors. A variety of functionalized silk materials, such as silk hydrogel, silk micro/nanoparticles and silk films, can be prepared by the methods of the present invention. The functionalization strategies of the present invention are relatively easy, fast and feasible, and are thus useful in many biomedical applications. | 05-24-2012 |
20120165759 | WATERPROOF STRETCHABLE OPTOELECTRONICS - Described herein are flexible and stretchable LED arrays and methods utilizing flexible and stretchable LED arrays. Assembly of flexible LED arrays alongside flexible plasmonic crystals is useful for construction of fluid monitors, permitting sensitive detection of fluid refractive index and composition. Co-integration of flexible LED arrays with flexible photodetector arrays is useful for construction of flexible proximity sensors. Application of stretchable LED arrays onto flexible threads as light emitting sutures provides novel means for performing radiation therapy on wounds. | 06-28-2012 |
20120171256 | ELECTROSPUN SILK MATERIAL SYSTEMS FOR WOUND HEALING - The present invention relates to the processes of preparing silkfibroin/polyethylene oxide blended materials, and the resulting materials thereof, which are suitable for biomedical applications such as wound healing. In particular, the electrospun silk fibroin/PEO mats with a silk:PEO blend ratio of 2:1 to 4:1, treated with controlled evaporation, constraint-drying techniques, and/or alcohol treatment, and/or PEO extraction, demonstrate suitable physical and biofunctional properties, such as fiber structure, topography, absorption, water vapor transmission rates, oxygen permeation, and biodegradability, relevant to biomaterial systems with utility for wound dressings. | 07-05-2012 |
20120171770 | BIOENGINEERED SILK PROTEIN-BASED NUCLEIC ACID DELIVERY SYSTEMS - Nucleic acid transfer is achieved using a silk-based delivery system which releases nucleic acids from silk-based complexes. The silk-based complexes, which are composed, for example, of plasmid DNA (pDNA) and recombinant silk containing polycation and specific polypeptides sequences, can show high biocompatibility, high delivery efficiency, cell selectivity and controlled release of nucleic acid for nucleic acid transfection. | 07-05-2012 |
20120187591 | SILK NANOSPHERES AND MICROSPHERES AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - The present invention provides for methods of preparing silk nanoparticles and microparticles, methods of encapsulating an active agent into the silk nano- and microparticles and compositions comprising these silk particles. In particular, the silk spheres are prepared from phase separation of silk and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), without exposure to an organic solvent. The method employs a chemical, PVA, which is an FDA-approved ingredient in drug formulations. Different parameters can be adjusted to control the size and shape of the silk spheres during the fabrication process. The silk particle compositions of the present invention may also encapsulate active agents or chemicals. Such compositions allow the active agents to be controllably and sustainably released to the target organs or tissues. The silk composition entrapping active agents also provides for a long-term storage medium for the active agents so entrapped. The silk nano- and microparticles of the present invention are thus suitable for a variety of biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, such as drug delivery or tissue engineering. | 07-26-2012 |
20120188640 | ALL-PROTEIN IMPLANTABLE, RESORBABLE REFLECTORS - The invention provides for compositions and process for fabricating an optical reflector constructed from biocompatible and bioresorbable silk fibroin proteins. For example, the silk retroreflectors may be built based on millimeter size microprism arrays to rotate the image plane of imaged cortical layers, thus enhancing the amount of photons that are detectable in the reflected direction when inserted in a sample to be analyzed, and ultimately increasing in contrast ratio in multiphoton microscopy. Such device can be used as a label-free, biocompatible, bioresorbable, implantable device for various applications ranging from medical imaging/diagnostics, drug/therapeutic delivery, to food chain safety and environmental monitoring. | 07-26-2012 |
20120195967 | SILK-BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present invention provides for novel sustained release silk-based delivery systems. The invention further provides methods for producing such formulations. In general, a silk fibroin solution is combined with a therapeutic agent to form a silk fibroin article. The article is then treated in such a way as to alter its conformation. The change in conformation increases its crytallinity or liquid crystallinity, thus controlling the release of a therapeutic agent from the formulation. This can be accomplished as single material carriers or in a layer-by-layer fashion to load different therapeutic agents or different concentrations of these agents in each layer. | 08-02-2012 |
20120244143 | DRAWN SILK EGEL FIBERS AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - The present invention relates to compositions and method for drawing egel silk fibroin fibers. The resulting fibers can transmit light and hence can be used as optical fiber. Silk fibroin fiber is produced by a method comprising applying an electric field to a solubilized silk fibroin solution to create a silk fibroin gel; converting the silk fibroin gel to a viscous silk liquid; and drawing a silk fiber from the viscous silk liquid. The silk fiber of the invention can be used in materials such as textile, medical sutures, and tissue materials, as well as conferring optical properties into these materials. | 09-27-2012 |
20120252120 | DIAZONIUM SALT MODIFICATION OF SILK POLYMER - A method for modifying silk polymer by coupling a chemical moiety to a tyrosine residue of a silk polymer is described herein for the purpose of altering the physical properties of the silk protein. Thus, silk proteins with desired physical properties can be produced by the methods described herein. These methods are particularly useful when the introduction of cells to a mammal is desired, since modifications to the silk protein affect the physical properties and thus the adhesion, metabolic activity and cell morphology of the desired cells. The silk protein can be modified to produce, or modify, a structure that provides an optimal environment for the desired cells. | 10-04-2012 |
20120308611 | FIBROUS PROTEIN FUSIONS AND USE THEREOF IN THE FORMATION OF ADVANCED ORGANIC/INORGANIC COMPOSITE MATERIALS - The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation. | 12-06-2012 |
20130039986 | Silk-Based Ionomeric Compositions - Disclosed herein are pH-dependent silk fibroin-based ionomeric compositions and colloids, and methods of making the same. The state of the silk fibroin ionomeric compositions is reversible and can transform from a gel-like colloid to a more fluid-like solution, or vice versa, upon an environmental stimulus, e.g., pH. Thus, the silk-based ionomeric compositions and colloids can be applied in various industries, ranging from electronic applications to biomedical applications, such as sensors, gel diodes, absorbent materials, drug delivery systems, tissue implants and contrast agents. | 02-14-2013 |
20130060008 | METHOD FOR SILK FIBROIN GELATION USING SONICATION - This invention provides for a process of rapidly forming silk fibroin gelation through ultrasonication. Under the appropriate conditions, gelation can be controlled to occur within two hours after the ultrasonication treatment. Biological materials, including viable cells, or therapeutic agents can be encapsulated in the hydrogels formed from the process and be used as delivery vehicles. | 03-07-2013 |
20130156844 | METHODS FOR STEPWISE DEPOSITION OF SILK FIBROIN COATINGS - The invention provides a method for the controlled assembly of layered silk fibroin coatings using aqueous silk fibroin material. The methods described herein can be used to coat substrates of any material, shape, or size. Importantly, the described methods enable control of the biomaterial surface chemistry, thickness, morphology and structure using layered thin film coatings, or bulk coatings. Furthermore, the methods can be performed in all water and do not require intensive chemical processing enabling controlled entrapment of labile molecules such as, drugs, cytokines, and even cells or viruses to generate functional coatings that can be used in a variety of applications. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158131 | SILK FIBROIN MATERIALS AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides processes for producing porous silk fibroin scaffold material. The porous silk fibroin scaffold can be used for tissue engineering. The porosity of the silk fibroin scaffolds described herein can be adjusted as to mimic the gradient of densities found in natural tissue. Accordingly, methods for engineering of 3-dimensional tissue, e.g. bone and cartilage, using the silk fibroin scaffold material are also provided. | 06-20-2013 |
20130165004 | CONCENTRATED AQUEOUS SILK FIBROIN SOLUTION AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides for concentrated aqueous silk fibroin solutions and an all-aqueous mode for preparation of concentrated aqueous fibroin solutions that avoids the use of organic solvents, direct additives, or harsh chemicals. The invention further provides for the use of these solutions in production of materials, e.g., fibers, films, foams, meshes, scaffolds and hydrogels. | 06-27-2013 |
20130171260 | SILK MICROSPHERES FOR ENCAPSULATION AND CONTROLLED RELEASE - A method was developed to prepare silk fibroin microspheres using lipid vesicles as templates to efficiently load therapeutic agents in active form for controlled release. The lipids are subsequently removed through the use of a dehydration agent, such as methanol or sodium chloride, resulting in β-sheet structure dominant silk microsphere structures having about 2 μm in diameter. The therapeutic agent can be entrapped in the silk microspheres and used in pharmaceutical formulations for controlled-release treatments. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172999 | MULTILAYERED SILK SCAFFOLDS FOR MENISCUS TISSUE ENGINEERING - Provided herein is a biocompatible implant for meniscus tissue engineering. Particularly, the biocompatible implant comprises a multi-layered crescent-shaped silk fibroin scaffold, in which each layer comprises distinct pore size and/or pore orientation, e.g., to mimic native meniscus complex architecture. Accordingly, the biocompatible implant can be used for repairing any meniscal defect or promoting meniscal regeneration in a subject. | 07-04-2013 |
20130177608 | METHOD FOR FORMING INORGANIC COATINGS - The present invention is directed to a method for forming an inorganic coating on a protein template. The method comprises contacting the template with an anionic polymer interface followed by an inorganic material for a sufficient period of time to allow mineralization of the inorganic material thus forming an inorganic coating on the template. Preferably, the coating is aligned. | 07-11-2013 |
20130177611 | SILK-BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present invention provides for novel sustained release silk-based delivery systems. The invention further provides methods for producing such formulations. In general, a silk fibroin solution is combined with a therapeutic agent to form a silk fibroin article. The article is then treated in such a way as to alter its conformation. The change in conformation increases its crystallinity or liquid crystallinity, thus controlling the release of a therapeutic agent from the formulation. This can be accomplished as single material carriers or in a layer-by-layer fashion to load different therapeutic agents or different concentrations of these agents in each layer. | 07-11-2013 |
20130190222 | CONCENTRATED AQUEOUS SILK FIBROIN SOLUTION AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides for concentrated aqueous silk fibroin solutions and an all-aqueous mode for preparation of concentrated aqueous fibroin solutions that avoids the use of organic solvents, direct additives, or harsh chemicals. The invention further provides for the use of these solutions in production of materials, e.g., fibers, films, foams, meshes, scaffolds and hydrogels. | 07-25-2013 |
20130195831 | SILK-BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present invention provides for novel sustained release silk-based delivery systems. The invention further provides methods for producing such formulations. In general, a silk fibroin solution is combined with a therapeutic agent to form a silk fibroin article. The article is then treated in such a way as to alter its conformation. The change in conformation increases its crystallinity or liquid crystallinity, thus controlling the release of a therapeutic agent from the formulation. This can be accomplished as single material carriers or in a layer-by-layer fashion to load different therapeutic agents or different concentrations of these agents in each layer. | 08-01-2013 |
20130230491 | COVALENTLY IMMOBILIZED PROTEIN GRADIENTS IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL POROUS SCAFFOLDS - The invention provides a method for forming an immobilized agent gradient within a 3-dimensional porous scaffold. A 3-dimensional scaffold formed from a biocompatible material is provided. The surface of the scaffold and/or the agent is activated so as to allow binding of the agent to the scaffold. The activated scaffold is contacted with a solution containing the agent. Contact with the solution is maintained for a sufficient period of time to allow diffusion of the solution through a portion of the scaffold, thereby forming a desired gradient of the agent through the 3-dimensional scaffold. | 09-05-2013 |
20130243866 | SILK MICROSPHERES FOR ENCAPSULATION AND CONTROLLED RELEASE - A method was developed to prepare silk fibroin microspheres using lipid vesicles as templates to efficiently load therapeutic agents in active form for controlled release. The lipids are subsequently removed through the use of a dehydration agent, such as methanol or sodium chloride, resulting in β-sheet structure dominant silk microsphere structures having about 2 μm in diameter. The therapeutic agent can be entrapped in the silk microspheres and used in pharmaceutical formulations for controlled-release treatments. | 09-19-2013 |
20130287742 | SILK FIBROIN AND POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL-BASED BIOMATERIALS - This invention relates to methods and compositions for preparation of silk-PEGs based biomaterials through crosslinking by chemically reacting active polyethylene glycols (PEGs) possessing different chemical groups (e.g., thiols and maleimides functionalized PEGs) that are additionally stabilized by the beta-sheet formation of silk fibroin. The crosslinked silk-PEGs biomaterials present strong adhesive properties, which are comparable to or better than the current leading PEG-based sealant, depending on the silk concentration in the silk-PEGs biomaterials. In addition, the silk-PEGs based biomaterials are cytocompatible, show decreased swelling behavior and longer degradation times, which make them suitable for hemostatic applications where the current available tissue sealant products can be contraindicated. | 10-31-2013 |
20130287835 | METHODS FOR STEPWISE DEPOSITION OF SILK FIBROIN COATINGS - The invention provides a method for the controlled assembly of layered silk fibroin coatings using aqueous silk fibroin material. The methods described herein can be used to coat substrates of any material, shape, or size. Importantly, the described methods enable control of the biomaterial surface chemistry, thickness, morphology and structure using layered thin film coatings, or bulk coatings. Furthermore, the methods can be performed in all water and do not require intensive chemical processing enabling controlled entrapment of labile molecules such as, drugs, cytokines, and even cells or viruses to generate functional coatings that can be used in a variety of applications. | 10-31-2013 |
20130310908 | PLASMONIC NANOPARTICLE-DOPED SILK MATERIALS - Provided herein are silk fibroin-based photothermal elements and uses thereof. The silk fibroin-based photothermal elements comprise a plurality of plasmonic nanoparticle distributed in a silk fibroin matrix, and can generate heat when the plasmonic nanoparticles are exposed to electromagnetic radiation. The silk fibroin-based photothermal elements can be adapted to be conformable and biodegradable, and can further be integrated with various electronic components, such as a thermo-electric device for conversion of heat into electricity. The invention is useful for various in vivo applications, such as photothermal therapy, controlled drug-delivery devices or wireless powering of implanted micro-devices. | 11-21-2013 |
20130323811 | BIOPOLYMER SENSOR AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer sensor including providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, adding a biological material in the biopolymer matrix, providing a substrate, casting the matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer sensor on the substrate. A biopolymer sensor is also provided that includes a solidified biopolymer film with an embedded biological material. | 12-05-2013 |
20130338632 | SILK FIBROIN-BASED MICRONEEDLES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - A microneedle or microneedle device includes a microneedle body extending from a base to a penetrating tip formed from a silk fibroin based material, which is easy to fabricate and highly biocompatible. The microneedle device can include one or more microneedles mounted to a substrate. The silk fibroin can include active agents to be transported into or across biological barriers such as skin, tissue and cell membranes. The silk fibroin microneedles can be fully or partially biodegradable and/or bioerodible. The silk fibroin is highly stable, affords room temperature storage and is implantable. The silk fibroin structure can be modulated to control the rate of active agent delivery. | 12-19-2013 |
20140023688 | ENCAPSULATED OILS - Provided herein is a silk material compositions and methods for encapsulating and/or stabilizing oil, lipid, hydrophobic or lipophilic compounds including active agents in a silk matrix. | 01-23-2014 |
20140039159 | ELECTROACTIVE BIOPOLYMER OPTICAL AND ELECTRO-OPTICAL DEVICES AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optical device includes providing a polymer, providing a substrate, casting the polymer on the substrate, and enzymatically polymerizing an organic compound to generate a conducting polymer between the provided polymer and the substrate. The polymer may be a biopolymer such as silk and may be modified using organic compounds such as tyrosines to provide a molecular-level interface between the provided bulk biopolymer of the biopolymer optical device and a substrate or other conducting layer via a tyrosine-enzyme polymerization. The enzymatically polymerizing may include catalyzing the organic compound with peroxidase enzyme reactions. The result is a carbon-carbon conjugated backbone that provides polymeric “wires” for use in polymer and biopolymer optical devices. An all organic biopolymer electroactive material is thereby provided that provides optical functions and features. | 02-06-2014 |
20140093580 | SILK-BASED DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM - The present invention provides for novel sustained release silk-based delivery systems. The invention further provides methods for producing such formulations. In general, a silk fibroin solution is combined with a therapeutic agent to form a silk fibroin article. The article is then treated in such a way as to alter its conformation. The change in conformation increases its crystallinity or liquid crystallinity, thus controlling the release of a therapeutic agent from the formulation. This can be accomplished as single material carriers or in a layer-by-layer fashion to load different therapeutic agents or different concentrations of these agents in each layer. | 04-03-2014 |
20140093902 | SILK TRANSISTOR DEVICES - The invention relates to ecosustainable and biocompatible, low cost, ambient friendly electronic and optoelectronic devices, such as transistors and light-emitting transistors, made with silk fibroin or blended with other biopolymers, methods for fabrication and methods of using the silk-based electronics and optoelectronics. The silk-based electronics and optoelectronics can be implanted in vivo and in vitro for biomedical applications, such as for drug discovery or drug screening assays and devices. The silk-based devices may be used in the food industry and embedded in packaging for tracking and sensing, for security purposes or exploited as disposable not harmful for the environment efficient general electronic and optoelectronic devices. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094410 | SILK FIBROIN MATERIALS AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides processes for producing porous silk fibroin scaffold material. The porous silk fibroin scaffold can be used for tissue engineering. The porosity of the silk fibroin scaffolds described herein can be adjusted as to mimic the gradient of densities found in natural tissue. Accordingly, methods for engineering of 3-dimensional tissue, e.g. bone and cartilage, using the silk fibroin scaffold material are also provided. | 04-03-2014 |
20140105978 | SILK MICROSPHERES FOR ENCAPSULATION AND CONTROLLED RELEASE - A method was developed to prepare silk fibroin microspheres using lipid vesicles as templates to efficiently load therapeutic agents in active form for controlled release. The lipids are subsequently removed through the use of a dehydration agent, such as methanol or sodium chloride, resulting in β-sheet structure dominant silk microsphere structures having about 2 μm in diameter. The therapeutic agent can be entrapped in the silk microspheres and used in pharmaceutical formulations for controlled-release treatments. | 04-17-2014 |
20140105995 | SILK FIBROIN SYSTEMS FOR ANTIBIOTIC DELIVERY - The present invention provides for silk fibroin-based compositions comprising one or more antibiotic agents for prevention or treatment of microbial contamination, methods of making antibiotic-containing silk scaffold, methods of stabilizing antibiotics in silk scaffolds, and methods for preventing or treating microbial contamination using the antibiotic-containing compositions. Various methods may be used to embed the antibiotic(s) into the silk fibroin-based compositions. The antibiotic-containing compositions of the invention are particular useful for stabilizing antibiotics, preventing bacterial infections, and for medical implants, tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, or other pharmaceutical or medical applications. | 04-17-2014 |
20140134240 | pH INDUCED SILK GELS AND USES THEREOF - This invention provides for compositions, methods and devices for rapidly converting silk fibroin solution into a silk fibroin gel using direct application of voltage, in a process called electrogelation. The silk fibroin gel may be reversibly converted back to liquid form by applying reverse voltage or may be converted further to β-sheet structure by applying shear force or other treatments. The electrogelated silk may be used as an extracted bulk gel, spray or stream of gel for processing into materials or devices, or may be used as silk gel coating to devices. Active agents may be embedded in the silk gel for various medical applications. This invention also provides for methods and compositions for preparing adhesive silk pH-gels. For example, the method comprises reducing pH level of a silk fibroin solution to increase the bulk or local proton concentration of the silk fibroin solution, thereby forming adhesive silk gels. | 05-15-2014 |
20140142048 | FIBROUS PROTEIN FUSIONS AND USE THEREOF IN THE FORMATION OF ADVANCED ORGANIC/INORGANIC COMPOSITE MATERIALS - The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation. | 05-22-2014 |
20140154788 | ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS ON PAPER-BASED SUBSTRATES - The present disclosure relates to paper-based substrates and apparatus comprising such substrates. The apparatus may include a patterned conductive structure coupled to the paper-based substrate, wherein the patterned conductive structure responds to electromagnetic radiation. | 06-05-2014 |
20140163390 | Implantable Biomedical Devices on Bioresorbable Substrates - Provided herein are implantable biomedical devices and methods of administering implantable biomedical devices, making implantable biomedical devices, and using implantable biomedical devices to actuate a target tissue or sense a parameter associated with the target tissue in a biological environment. | 06-12-2014 |
20140205797 | BIOPOLYMER PHOTONIC CRYSTALS AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer photonic crystal includes providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate, casting the matrix solution on the substrate, and drying the biopolymer matrix solution to form a solidified biopolymer film. A surface of the film is formed with a nanopattern, or a nanopattern is machined on a surface of the film. In another embodiment, a plurality of biopolymer films is stacked together. A photonic crystal is also provided that is made of a biopolymer and has a nanopatterned surface. In another embodiment, the photonic crystal includes a plurality of nanopatterned films that are stacked together. | 07-24-2014 |
20140222152 | IMPLANTABLE INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DEVICES AND USES THEREOF - Provided herein are implantable intervertebral disc devices, and methods of making the same. For example, an implantable intervertebral disc device comprises an engineered annulus fibrosus (AF) scaffold that can mimic its native-like cross alignment of pores/channels within the AF region, and can be served as a scaffolding material for cell and matrix alignment. Accordingly, methods of treating a disease or disorder associated with degeneration of an intervertebral disc in a subject are also provided herein, e.g., by replacing the degenerated intervertebral disc of the subject with an implantable intervertebral disc device described herein. | 08-07-2014 |
20140287043 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR STABILIZATION OF ACTIVE AGENTS - Provided herein are methods and compositions for stabilization of active agents. The active agents are distributed, mixed or embedded in a silk fibroin matrix, thereby retaining the bioactivity of the active agents upon storage and/or transportation. In some embodiments, the storage-stable vaccine-silk compositions are also provided herein. | 09-25-2014 |
20140296174 | SILK-BASED MULTIFUNCTIONAL BIOMEDICAL PLATFORM - The present invention provides a multifunctional platform suitable for biomedical applications. In particular, the invention includes a silk fibroin-based multifunctional device that enables both the sustained delivery of a drug and monitoring of such delivery in vivo. | 10-02-2014 |
20140303346 | METHOD FOR SILK FIBROIN GELATION USING SONICATION - This invention provides for a process of rapidly forming silk fibroin gelation through ultrasonication. Under the appropriate conditions, gelation can be controlled to occur within two hours after the ultrasonication treatment. Biological materials, including viable cells, or therapeutic agents can be encapsulated in the hydrogels formed from the process and be used as delivery vehicles. | 10-09-2014 |
20140308362 | INJECTABLE SILK FIBROIN PARTICLES AND USES THEREOF - The inventions provided herein relate to compositions, methods, delivery devices and kits for repairing or augmenting a tissue in a subject. The compositions described herein are injectable such that they can be placed in a tissue to be treated with a minimally-invasive procedure (e.g., by injection) and/or be molded flexibly into a tissue void of any shape and/or size. In some embodiments, the composition described herein comprises a plurality of silk fibroin particles, which can retain their original volume within the tissue for a period of time. The compositions can be used as a filler to replace a tissue void, e.g., for tissue repair and/or augmentation, or as a scaffold to support tissue regeneration and/or reconstruction. In some embodiments, the compositions described herein can be used for soft tissue repair or augmentation. | 10-16-2014 |
20140314817 | INJECTABLE SILK FIBROIN FOAMS AND USES THEREOF - The inventions provided herein relate to compositions, methods, delivery devices and kits for repairing or augmenting a tissue in a subject. The compositions described herein can be injectable such that they can be placed in a tissue to be treated with a minimally-invasive procedure (e.g., by injection). In some embodiments, the composition described herein comprises a compressed silk fibroin matrix, which can expand upon injection into the tissue and retain its original expanded volume within the tissue for a period of time. The compositions can be used as a filler to replace a tissue void, e.g., for tissue repair and/or augmentation, or as a scaffold to support tissue regeneration and/or reconstruction. In some embodiments, the compositions described herein can be used for soft tissue repair or augmentation. | 10-23-2014 |
20140349380 | BIOPOLYMER OPTOFLUIDIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A method of manufacturing a biopolymer optofluidic device including providing a biopolymer, processing the biopolymer to yield a biopolymer matrix solution, providing a substrate, casting the biopolymer matrix solution on the substrate, embedding a channel mold in the biopolymer matrix solution, drying the biopolymer matrix solution to solidify biopolymer optofluidic device, and extracting the embedded channel mold to provide a fluidic channel in the solidified biopolymer optofluidic device. In accordance with another aspect, an optofluidic device is provided that is made of a biopolymer and that has a channel therein for conveying fluid. | 11-27-2014 |
20140370094 | SILK-BASED SCAFFOLD PLATFORM FOR ENGINEERING TISSUE CONSTRUCTS - The inventions provided herein relate to silk-based scaffolds and methods of producing the same, which can be used for a range of tissue engineering applications. The fabrication methods described herein provide a versatile platform to incorporate hollow conduits (e.g., for nutrient/oxygen delivery) through three-dimensional silk-based scaffolds that have tunable bulk properties (e.g., but not limited to, porosity, mechanical, degradation rate) and allow endothelialization and/or cell compartmentalization, for engineering a variety of complex tissue equivalents. | 12-18-2014 |
20140378661 | MOLDED REGENERATED SILK GEOMETRIES USING TEMPERATURE CONTROL AND MECHANICAL PROCESSING - The present disclosure provides methods for fabricating various regenerated silk geometries using temperature control. In addition to temperature control, mechanical processing can be used to enhance properties of the fabricated article. The present disclosure also provides silk foam and paper-like materials molded using freezer processing. | 12-25-2014 |
20140379094 | FIBROUS PROTEIN FUSIONS AND USE THEREOF IN THE FORMATION OF ADVANCED ORGANIC/INORGANIC COMPOSITE MATERIALS - The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation. | 12-25-2014 |
20150037422 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR OCULAR DELIVERY OF A THERAPEUTIC AGENT - Embodiments of various aspects described herein are directed to silk-based compositions for ocular delivery of at least one active agent, e.g., at least one therapeutic agent and methods of using the same. In some embodiments, the silk-based compositions can provide sustained release of at least one therapeutic agent to at least a portion of an eye. Thus, some embodiments of the silk-based compositions can be used for treatment of an ocular condition, e.g., age-related macular degeneration. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038043 | CONCENTRATED AQUEOUS SILK FIBROIN SOLUTION AND USE THEREOF - The present invention provides for concentrated aqueous silk fibroin solutions and an all-aqueous mode for preparation of concentrated aqueous fibroin solutions that avoids the use of organic solvents, direct additives, or harsh chemicals. The invention further provides for the use of these solutions in production of materials, e.g., fibers, films, foams, meshes, scaffolds and hydrogels. | 02-05-2015 |
20150045764 | SILK RESERVOIRS FOR DRUG DELIVERY - The present invention is directed to silk-based drug delivery compositions for controlled, sustained delivery of therapeutic agent(s) as well as methods of making and using the same. | 02-12-2015 |
20150056293 | SILK NANOSPHERES AND MICROSPHERES AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME - The present invention provides for methods of preparing silk nanoparticles and microparticles, methods of encapsulating an active agent into the silk nano- and microparticles and compositions comprising these silk particles. In particular, the silk spheres are prepared from phase separation of silk and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), without exposure to an organic solvent. The method employs a chemical, PVA, which is an FDA-approved ingredient in drug formulations. Different parameters can be adjusted to control the size and shape of the silk spheres during the fabrication process. The silk particle compositions of the present invention may also encapsulate active agents or chemicals. Such compositions allow the active agents to be controllably and sustainably released to the target organs or tissues. The silk composition entrapping active agents also provides for a long-term storage medium for the active agents so entrapped. The silk nano- and microparticles of the present invention are thus suitable for a variety of biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, such as drug delivery or tissue engineering. | 02-26-2015 |
20150056294 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR PREPARING A SILK MICROSPHERE - Provided herein relates to methods and compositions for preparing a silk microsphere and the resulting silk microsphere. In some embodiments, the methods and compositions described herein are all aqueous, which can be used for encapsulating an active agent in a silk microsphere, while maintaining activity of the active agent during processing. In some embodiments, the resulting silk microsphere can be used for sustained delivery of an active agent encapsulated therein. | 02-26-2015 |
20150064155 | METHODS FOR TREATMENT OF CERVICAL INSUFFICIENCY - Methods, compositions, devices and kits for increasing mechanical stiffness of an incompetent or a dilated biological tissue in a subject are provided herein. The methods described herein involve placing (e.g., injecting) a silk fibroin-based composition into at least a portion of an incompetent or dilated tissue of a subject. In some embodiments, the silk fibroin-based composition can further comprise at least two PEG components that will crosslink together upon placement (e.g., injection) into a subject in need thereof. In specific embodiments, the methods, compositions, devices and kits can be used to increase mechanical stiffness of a cervical tissue in a subject, for example, for treatment of cervical insufficiency. | 03-05-2015 |
20150079012 | SILK FIBROIN-BASED PERSONAL CARE COMPOSITIONS - Provided herein relates to silk fibroin-based compositions comprising non-hydrolyzed silk fibroin and a humectant agent and methods of making the same. In some embodiments, the silk fibroin-based compositions can be formulated for personal care products, e.g., but not limited to, cosmetic products, skin care products, body care products, and/or hair products. In some embodiments, the silk fibroin-based compositions can be formulated for food applications. | 03-19-2015 |
20150086605 | MULTI-LAYER BIOMATERIAL FOR TISSUE REGENERATION AND WOUND HEALING - The technology described herein is directed to compositions comprising at least a first porous biomaterial layer and a second impermeable biomaterial layer and methods relating thereto. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods described herein relate to wound healing, e.g. repair of wounds and/or tissue defects. | 03-26-2015 |