This technology is a microneedle-endoscope capable of perforating the round window membrane of the inner ear, allowing for drug delivery and sampling of inner ear fluids for therapeutics and diagnostics.
Unmet Need: Methods for drugging and/or sampling of the inner ear
Current methods to sample and/or deliver drugs to the inner ear are largely restricted by their invasiveness and potential long-term complications such as trauma and hearing loss. The round window membrane is a major physical barrier to the inner ear that requires careful consideration to maintain its integrity and prevent long-term damage. Furthermore, methods that allow for both sampling and drug delivery are lacking.
The Technology: Microneedle-Endoscope allows for drug delivery and sampling of inner ear
This device is fitted with a microneedle head and leverages endoscopic, camera-guided precision to carefully perforate the round window membrane of the inner ear. Capable of both drug delivery and fluid sampling, this technology safety traverses a major physical barrier to the inner ear without disrupting its structural integrity and mitigating potential long-term concerns such as hearing loss.
Applications:
- Diagnostic tool for sampling of the inner ear
- Drug delivery device for accessing the inner ear
- Clinical tool for perforating the round window membrane
Advantages:
- Safely navigates the round window membrane without undermining its integrity
- Allows for high precision with camera guidance
- Can both deliver therapeutics and sample inner ear fluid for diagnostic purposes
- Minimally invasive
Lead Inventors:
Jeffrey W. Kysar, Ph.D.
Anil K. Lalwani, M.D.
Patent Information:
Patent Pending(PCT/US2023/061545)
Related Publications:
Szeto B, Aksit A, Valentini C, Yu M, Werth EG, Goeta S, Tang C, Brown LM, Olson ES, Kysar JW, Lalwani AK. “Novel 3D-printed hollow microneedles facilitate safe, reliable, and informative sampling of perilymph from guinea pigs” Hear. Res. 2021 Feb 1; 400: 108141
Aksit A, Rastogi S, Nadal ML, Parker AM, Lalwani AK, West AC, Kysar JW. “Drug delivery device for the inner ear: ultra-sharp fully metallic microneedles” Drug Deliv Transl Res. 2021 Feb; 11: pp. 214-26.
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU21365, CU22203, CU22311, CU23068
Licensing Contact: Sara Gusik