IDRI licenses NanoPass microneedle technology for intradermal
delivery
10 September 2009
The Seattle-based Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI) and
Israeli company NanoPass Technologies Ltd. (NanoPass) have entered into
an agreement whereby IDRI licenses NanoPass' proprietary MicronJet
microneedle technology for the intradermal delivery of products against
a number of diseases including tuberculosis, HIV, malaria, leishmaniasis
and leprosy, among others.
NanoPass' single use, microneedles-based device can be used with any
standard syringe to deliver liquid substances directly and consistently
into the skin.
Intradermal vaccine delivery has been shown to induce a stronger
immune response when compared to conventional administration methods
such as intramuscular and subcutaneous injections. This is attributed to
the relatively dense network of immune cells present in the skin,
leading to a better stimulation of the body's defences. As a result,
intradermal delivery may enhance vaccine protection, facilitate
development of novel vaccines for challenging diseases and allow for a
reduction in the amount of antigen needed to stimulate a protective
immune response.
"We are very excited to sign this license agreement with NanoPass,"
said Dr Steven Reed, Founder and Head of IDRI's Research and
Development. "NanoPass' MicronJet technology provides targeted delivery
of the vaccine to specialized cells of the immune system. We have
observed a similar immunostimulating effect with our adjuvants and we
look forward to evaluating the combined potential of these
technologies."
IDRI also plans to apply the MicronJet technology for the
administration of diagnostic skin tests.
Because microneedles are very short, they do not reach the free nerve
endings of the skin that are responsible for pain sensation, and
therefore most substances can be administered with microneedles with
less pain. Furthermore, the microneedles are so small that they are
barely visible to the naked eye, making the MicronJet far less
intimidating than a conventional needle — and perfect for children and
needle-phobic patients.
Dr Yotam Levin, CEO of NanoPass, said: "This agreement signals a new
milestone for NanoPass and our MicronJet device. We are delighted to
collaborate with IDRI so that this technology can be utilized in the
most challenging infectious diseases that impede global health. We are
excited that the MicronJet will be used to deliver innovative products
targeting the needs of the poorest populations and hopefully protect
many lives."
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