Executive Summary - Patents

 

The global patent portfolio of issued patents and pending applications owned and exclusively licensed by 3D BioLabs protects a bedrock of designs and devices for the in vivo implants and in vitro test systems 3D BioLabs is developing, including the design and general fabrication of two and three-dimensional branched micro-channel devices and their constituent sub-elements. The patent portfolio covers multiple methods for implementing branching micro-channel networks, elements of mass transport conditions in micro-channels, and exchange mechanisms between micro-channels, which collectively enable sustained maintenance and growth of engineered tissues.

 

An exemplary concept embodied in the patent portfolio relates to an exchange mechanism at an interface between adjacent micro-channels. The exchange mechanism spatially separates the adjacent micro-channels maintaining seeded cells within respective channels while allowing fluidic communication between the adjacent channels via the interface, the exchange occurring either permanently or temporarily.

 

The patent portfolio protects a fundamental scaffold device utilizing one or more channel branching networks, mimicking a fractal vascular network. This architecture finds use in in vivo implants and in vitro test systems. The channels and branches of the network are designed to replicate flow conditions found in natural physiological organ systems while providing an environment optimizing cell density and growth. This scaffold network is fabricated in devices structured to allow an exchange of material there between, creating inflow and outflow networks for seeding cells, providing nourishment, and removing waste. Two or more devices may be coupled in series or parallel to create more complex systems.

 

3D BioLab scientists and engineers continue actively researching and developing novel platforms enabling artificial devices for in vivo implants and in vitro test systems. One such platform includes methods for seeding and cultivating cells in a biodegradable implantable device, which is formed through additive manufacturing. This platform utilizes novel devices temporarily hindering communication between adjacent micro-channels, allowing the seeded cells to adhere to the device for cultivation, maintenance, and expansion.

 

The global patent estate covers a broad spectrum of systems, methods, and devices for use as in vivo implants and in vitro test systems. The 3D Biolabs designs and devices mimic physiological systems in vivo (e.g., a liver, a heart, a bone, a kidney, a lung, etc.) providing a controlled and physiological relevant environment for cell culture, and long-term maintenance and function. 3D- Biolabs proprietary “organ on a chip” systems mimic physiological systems in vitro, providing devices for evaluating pharmacokinetics and other properties of pharmaceutical compositions, including clearance, compound sensitivity to organ microenvironment, toxicity, and the like.