Particle Sciences Granted Patent on Self-Sterilizing Medical Devices


Particle Sciences Inc. (PSI), a leading pharmaceutical CRO, has received Notice of Allowance for a method of sterilizing medical devices. The patent covers the notion of using free radical generating moieties in or on the medical device. Free radicals are, of course, an effective mode of sterilization. So, as an example, a catheter coated with a free radical generating particle would, upon the proper stimulation, generate surface free radicals eliminating any early biofilm that might be forming. Ultraviolet light delivered to the catheter would be an example of a viable energy source to stimulate free radical production.

“Particle Sciences is a technology-driven organization,” said Mark Mitchnick, CEO of Particle Sciences. “We have applied for over 10 patents in the past several years either on our own or as coinventors on behalf of our clients. In addition, we have in-licensed several key patent families in the area of drug delivery and are considering additional technology acquisitions. This specific idea flowed from our drug-eluting medical device work and our background in photochemistry. As a drug delivery CRO, however, this technology is a bit out of our area of focus. Because of that, we will look for an opportunity to out license the patents that have both US and EU approval.”

Particle Sciences Inc. is an integrated provider of drug development services. Particle Sciences utilizes a broad suite of drug delivery technologies to address a diverse range of challenges. With special expertise in particulate-based formulations and drug/device combination products, Particle Sciences has become a leader in drug delivery development. Through a full range of formulation, analytic, bioanalytic, and sterile and non-sterile manufacturing services, the company provides pharmaceutical companies with a complete and seamless development solution that minimizes the time and risk between discovery and the clinic.