Flexible, sticky, and biodegradable wireless device for drug delivery to brain tumors

Nat Commun. 2019 Nov 15;10(1):5205. doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-13198-y.

Abstract

Implantation of biodegradable wafers near the brain surgery site to deliver anti-cancer agents which target residual tumor cells by bypassing the blood-brain barrier has been a promising method for brain tumor treatment. However, further improvement in the prognosis is still necessary. We herein present novel materials and device technologies for drug delivery to brain tumors, i.e., a flexible, sticky, and biodegradable drug-loaded patch integrated with wireless electronics for controlled intracranial drug delivery through mild-thermic actuation. The flexible and bifacially-designed sticky/hydrophobic device allows conformal adhesion on the brain surgery site and provides spatially-controlled and temporarily-extended drug delivery to brain tumors while minimizing unintended drug leakage to the cerebrospinal fluid. Biodegradation of the entire device minimizes potential neurological side-effects. Application of the device to the mouse model confirms tumor volume suppression and improved survival rate. Demonstration in a large animal model (canine model) exhibited its potential for human application.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Absorbable Implants
  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Agents / metabolism
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / drug effects
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / metabolism
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Dogs
  • Drug Delivery Systems / instrumentation
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Wireless Technology

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents