Correlation of Surface Free Energy and Cytocompatibility of Amphiphilic Biomaterials (BC/B7)”
This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project pertains to the selection of an amphiphilic polymer coating for use as a spray-on bandage, delivered from a non-stinging volatile solvent to a wound, particularly a first or second degree burn wound, to form a substrate for human cell attachment, viability, and proliferation, without the use of added growth factors, proteins, and autologous or allogeneic cells. The investigation will involve cytocompatibility and wound healing studies on these novel polymers, in conjunction with a determination of the polymers’ physical and mechanical properties. The success of this research will demonstrate that an inexpensive, easily applied liquid adhesive bandage for burn and wound treatment is possible by judicious choice of a synthetic polymer that is cytocompatible to human cells, facilitates wound healing, and also self-removes by desquamation. It is anticipated that this investigation will produce the first instance of an inexpensive polymer coating, delivered as a spray-on bandage, which serves as a cell substrate to assist in healing first and second degree burns with reduced scar formation. The broader impact of this technology is improved burn healing with reduction of scar formation from burn injuries by facile application using a spray-on liquid bandage. Health care for burn patients is one of the most expensive aspects of current health care systems. In the United States, approximately 2.1 million burn injuries are reported per year. Of those hospitalized, approximately 20,000 patients with burns die, and approximately one million sustain substantial or permanent disabilities resulting from their burn injury. There are more than 40 million scar patients worldwide per year, at a treatment cost of $12 billion, with the incidence of large joint scar contracture in major burns approaching 40%. No commercial burn care product or methodology provides for improved burn healing with reduced pain and reduced scar formation utilizing a patient and caregiver-friendly technique. As research continues on the role of amphiphilic polymers in the wound healing process and the role of the polymers as substrates for cell migration and tissue reconstruction without added growth factors or proteins, scientists’ increasing understanding will allow development of even more effective burn treatments. less This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project pertains to the selection of an amphiphilic polymer coating for use as a spray-on bandage, delivered from a non-stinging volatile solvent to a wound, particularly a first or second degree burn wound, to form a substrate for human cell attachment, viability, and proliferation, without the use of added growth factors, proteins, and autologous or allogeneic cells. The investigation will involve cytocompatibility and wound healing studies on these novel polymers... more
Rochal Industries is a small private research company focused on developing new biomaterials for wound and burn care. The company is located on the west campus of the University of Texas at San Antonio.
The position will primarily require synthesis of polymers, polymer characterization, testing of the polymers for wound care applications, formulation development utilizing these polymers and/or antimicrobial components, and interfacing with collaborators conducting in vitro and in vivo studies. A significant portion of the job responsibilities will pertain to completion of NSF SBIR Phase II Award “Correlation of Surface Free Energy and Cytocompatibility of Amphiphilic Biomaterials”.
PhD preferred in polymer science, biomedical engineering or systemic biology but other disciplines considered. A strong ability to problem-solve and use creativity are required. Applicants must have good written and oral English language skills.
