New Drug Release Mechanism Using 3-D Superhydrophobic Materials

In a research conducted by scientists at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) a new drug release mechanism has been developed which uses 3-D superhydrophobic materials.

The research team headed by Yolonda Colson, Director of the Dana-Farber Cancer Insititute, prepared superhydrophobic meshes made from biocompatible polymers and loaded the same with drugs. The drug loaded meshes were prepared by using an electrospinning fabrication method.

The team then observed drug release in the aqueous solution and the performance of the mesh in cytotoxicity assays. After their observations the team established that the rate at which the drug is released is related to the amount of air removed from the air pocket and that the rate of drug release can over a period of 2-3 months. This finding is of major interest particularly in thoracic surgery in specific applications such as treatment and prevention of tumour after surgery and pain management. Other participants in the research included Mark Grinstaff, a BU professor of biomedical engineering and chemistry and graduate student of Boston University Stefan Yohe. Yolonda Colson is a thoracic surgeon currently practicing at the BWH for the treatment of lung cancer patients. The research is funded by Boston University, Coulter Foundation, Center for Integration of Medicine and Innovative Technology and the National Institutes of Health.