Background

Riga Technical University (RTU) has spearheaded advancements in ceramic-based drug delivery systems. Their focus has been on the integration of drugs into amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) ceramic during the sintering process. With a TRL of 3, an experimental proof-of-concept has been established.

Technology Overview

RTU presents a simple and innovative method to sinter highly bioactive and resorbable bioceramic – ACP, at room temperature. The process involves densification of ACP powder at approximately 1500 MPa at room temperature. The sintering conditions allow the incorporation of different drugs into the bioceramic during the sintering step.

Latest technological improvements: in vitro proof-of-concept study demonstrating encouraging results.

Innovative room-temperature sintering method for integrating drugs into bioactive and resorbable ACP ceramic, demonstrating efficient drug release kinetics in controlled conditions. Primed for advanced testing upon partnership. We are primed to advance to the ‘in vivo’ study phase upon securing a licensing or commercial partner.

Key Features:

• Achieves a relative density surpassing 95% for the sintered ceramic.
• Mechanical strength is on par with calcium phosphate ceramics sintered at temperatures exceeding 1000 °C.
• The sintering process allows the inclusion of various drugs into the ACP ceramic during the sintering step.
• Results in a drug delivery system with superior mechanical strength, offering long-term drug delivery. The drug release rate is governed by the dissolution/degradation rate of the ACP.

Benefits

• Efficiency: The technology is both simple and swift.
• Versatility: Different drugs can be seamlessly incorporated into the highly bioactive and resorbable bioceramic – ACP.
• Tailored Release: Drug release kinetics can be modified using process parameters.
• Flexibility in Production: The technology enables the production of both dense and porous ACP-based drug delivery systems.

Applications

• Drug delivery systems
• Load-bearing materials useful for bone regeneration
• Dental restoration applications

IP Status

• Latvian patent no. LV15709, filed in 2021.
• Pending PCT patent application, no. PCT/IB2022/056873.

Seeking

• Licensing
• Commercial partner

Contact information

Alina Dolmate
RTU Science & Innovation Centre
Business Development Manager (Biotechnology)
alina.dolmate@rtu.lv
+371 26714520