Expanding Anti-Adhesive Barrier Membrane Technology into New Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of the original anti-adhesive barrier membrane using alginate and hyaluronic acid to address unmet needs in various industries, including medical implant infection prevention, wound healing, biosensing, controlled therapeutic release, and biofilm prevention.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an anti-adhesive barrier membrane using alginate and hyaluronic acid for biomedical applications. However, the membrane's potential extends beyond its initial scope. The new inventive concept tackles the limitations of the original patent by applying the core technology to novel industries and use cases, thereby expanding its commercial potential.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a hydrogel barrier membrane using alginate and hyaluronic acid, adapted for various applications. In the medical implant context, the membrane prevents bacterial colonization. For wound healing, the membrane promotes healing by selectively inhibiting fibroblast infiltration. As a biosensor, the membrane is functionalized with antibodies or aptamers to detect specific biomarkers. In controlled therapeutic release, the membrane is designed to release therapeutic agents in a sustained manner. Finally, the membrane inhibits bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on medical devices.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel applications and use cases for the anti-adhesive barrier membrane technology, which were not anticipated in the original patent. The inventive step lies in the recognition of the membrane's versatility and its adaptation to address unmet needs in diverse industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include varying the composition or structure of the hydrogel barrier membrane to optimize its performance in specific applications. Variations may also involve combining the membrane with other materials or technologies to enhance its functionality.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The expanded anti-adhesive barrier membrane technology has significant commercial potential in the medical device, wound care, biosensing, and pharmaceutical industries. The market for these applications is substantial, with growing demand for innovative solutions to address unmet needs.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61L31/041 |
| A | A61 | A61K31/192 |
| A | A61 | A61K31/195 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/145 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/148 |
| A | A61 | A61L31/16 |
| A | A61 | A61L2300/414 |
| A | A61 | A61L2300/43 |
| A | A61 | A61L2300/62 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomaterials and medical device technologies, specifically biopolymer hydrogel membranes for biomedical applications, with expertise in polymer chemistry, surface modification, and medical device design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A researcher or engineer with advanced degrees in biomedical engineering, materials science, or chemical engineering, having knowledge of polysaccharide-based hydrogels, surface interactions, and medical device applications
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD represents a straightforward extension of the source patent's core technology by applying the established alginate and hyaluronic acid hydrogel membrane to additional medical and technological applications. A PHOSITA would recognize the inherent versatility of the hydrogel membrane's anti-adhesive properties and understand how these characteristics could be readily adapted to solve related technical challenges in different contexts. The variations demonstrate predictable applications that leverage the fundamental material properties already disclosed in the source patent.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,701 |
|---|---|
| Title | Anti-adhesive barrier membrane using alginate and hyaluronic acid for biomedical applications |
| Assignee(s) | Board of Regents, The University of Texas System |