INNOSENSE CORPORATION — Department of Energy SBIR Phase II: 09b

Description

Non-petroleum-based resources, such as nanocellulose derived from biofeedstock, are considered an attractive means to meet the increasing societal demand for value-added products. Utilization of these resources will steer the nation toward a self-sustainable bioeconomy, which is in alignment with Department of Energy’s mission to efficiently-utilize nanocellulose and convert it to commercially-viable, high-performance products. Toward meeting this goal, the company is developing supramolecular nanocellulose excipients for oral delivery of protein drugs. Specifically, crystalline nanocellulose from various sources is utilized to form hydrogel excipients for encapsulated drugs resulting in controlled and sustained release. In Phase I, the company successfully formulated hydrogels from crystalline nanocellulose procured from two different sources. The hydrogels were loaded with insulin with an encapsulation efficiency of 82% within 24 hours. The hydrogels were non-toxic to the Colo 205 cell line releasing 100% of the encapsulated protein within 24 hours. The structural integrity of the encapsulated and released insulin was confirmed. In Phase II, the company plans to continue fine-tuning the nanocellulose-based hydrogels to increase: (1) loading capacity, (2) encapsulation efficiency, and (3) increase drug release capability beyond 24 hours. Nanocellulose from multiple sources will be investigated as excipients. The company will perform a detailed techno-economic analysis comparing our nanocellulose-based excipient to various petroleum-based excipients. Commercial applications and other benefits: Supramolecular nanocellulose excipients can find immediate application as a drug excipient for insulin and other protein drugs. The hydrogel material is promising as a drug excipient for its sustained release, which would: (1) improve drug effectiveness, (2) reduce dosing frequency, and (3) improve patient compliance.