LYNNTECH INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A16-059

Description

Peripheral Neuropathy (PN) is a painful debilitating condition caused by progressive subcutaneous nerve damage due to diabetes, chemotherapy or as a result of traumatic combat injuries. Current treatment options for PN are only moderately effective but have numerous drawbacks such as systemic effects, inefficient drug delivery and toxicity. Furthermore, long term use of some PN therapeutics can potentially lead to dependency. Lynntech, Inc. proposes to develop a biocompatible epicutaneous gel system for topical and controlled delivery of a unique combination of targeted therapeutics to effectively treat peripheral neuropathy. This novel combination therapeutic and delivery strategy will be designed to perform the dual action of mitigating pain and blocking/limiting nerve damage. The epicutaneous gel can be easily administered due to its familiar topical gel format. Phase I will provide proof-of-concept for efficacy of the combination PN therapeutic and delivery strategy using an appropriate in vitro 3D skin equivalent model. During Phase II development, an appropriate in vivo model of PN will be used to further develop the topical gel system for improved skin barrier penetration and optimal neuronal targeting ability. This innovative epicutaneous gel-based combination therapeutic system may significantly improve the quality of life of our soldiers with PN.