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Electroporation
In vitro electroporation is a standard laboratory procedure used to introduce a wide range of different molecules into cells. The medical applications of electroporation are at a much earlier stage of development and require much more sophisticated instrumentation. Work at the University of York has demonstrated considerable clinical promise including the enhancement of drug uptake by means of an innovative delivery method.
In order to translate the findings from in vitro studies into new clinical treatment, it is necessary to generate electric fields of appropriate strength and duration in order to cause reversible breakdown of the cell membranes in a range of body tissues. Pilot work by the department of Electronics has already demonstrated the viability of the novel technique, and work is underway to progress it.
The concept is innovative in two ways:
- the use of a novel method to produce strong electric fields at depth in the body
- the application of electroporation to tissues at depths in the body.
Benefits
- Improved methods of delivering drugs to cells in particular sites within the body, including tumours or genetically-damaged cells
- Resultant improving therapy for a wide-range of diseases, including oncology, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases.
Applications
- Electroporation for targeted delivery of drugs and vaccines
Investment readiness status
The university is seeking clinical and academic collaborators with a view to achieving proof of concept
IP status
Patent filed