Description

ProGel is a versatile platform for localized and long acting drug delivery

ProGel is a platform technology that can be used with a diverse spectrum of drug payloads, such as steroids, statins, antioxidants, opioids, chemotherapeutics, and hormones. A liquid at lower temperatures, ProGel transforms into a gel-like substance as it reaches body temperature. The gel is then more likely to linger in the affected area, concentrating the pharmaceutical payload exactly where it needs to be.
 
The initial focus of ProGel is on managing osteoarthritis pain, incorporating a potent steroid, dexamethasone, into the formulation.
 
When injected into a joint, dexamethasone provides temporary relief of debilitating pain and swelling caused by osteoarthritis, a chronic condition that slowly erodes the protective cartilage at the end of bones.
 
While effective for pain relief, the benefit of dexamethasone is unfortunately short-lived, usually lasting only a few days. However, when formulated with ProGel, dexamethasone remains active much longer, providing relief for months. In addition to providing a more sustained and stable local release of medication, the hydrogel also has the benefit of limiting potential harmful side effects typically seen with systemic dexamethasone, including weight gain, increased blood sugar, insomnia and osteoporosis.
 
Any number of pharmaceuticals can combine with ProGel for localized and sustained delivery. For example, ProGel could help treat other musculoskeletal disorders such as chronic back pain, tendonitis, bursitis, fracture repair, spinal fusion, and periodontal bone regeneration.
It may also serve as a depot for sustained drug delivery in a broad spectrum of disorders, including hormone therapy for high-risk pregnancy, and localized chemotherapy.
 
To discuss licensing opportunities please contact Matt Boehm, PhD, at mboehm@unmc.edu or 402-536-9881.