Altair files new patents on nanotech drug delivery
applications on its TiNano Spheres drug delivery system, which it
claims can deliver a large amount of drug, improving reaction
rates.
Altair has developed micron size structures, TiNano Spheres, capable of carrying active pharmaceutical ingredients on either the interior or exterior surfaces. Made by Altair's patented 'growth-in-film' nano-technology, the spheres consist of hundreds of nanoparticles bound together in spherical and near spherical shapes.
The nanoparticles have a very high surface area and when coated with an API deliver a very large amount of drug to biosystem interface. This larger interface could improve solubility and/or reaction rates, claims the company.
Recent laboratory testing results show the ability to control the level of loading of drugs onto and into the TiNano Spheres, which provides for high drug and chemical loading levels. This capability is important for developing a broad platform of drug delivery systems that can address a multitude of market opportunities.
Testing also confirmed that drugs loaded into the TiNano Spheres delivery system matrix can be released at significant therapeutic concentrations, said Altair.
The company has also confirmed that TiNano Spheres resist crushing, making 'street' methods commonly used to abuse drugs like amphetamines or pain management drugs and narcotics difficult or impossible.
Altair is targeting companies interested in novel drug delivery systems or seeking to extend product life cycles of existing drugs, like those for pain management, inflammation, coronary indications, analgesia and microbial infection.
The spheres use materials such as titanium dioxide, which are recognized as being biologically benign and safe.
Last month the firm was awarded a new patent on processing titaniferous ore to titanium dioxide pigment, by the European Patent Office (no 01194379.EP-B1).
The European Commission recently published a new strategy to keep the European Union at the forefront of research into nanotechnology. The market for such products and processes is estimated to be around €2.5 billion today worldwide, according to the EC. However, analysts predict it could be worth hundreds of billions of euros by 2010, later exceeding €1 trillion.
