Biopharmanet-TEC developed an innovative drug delivery system for the local delivery of anticancer drugs, i.e. a biodegradable polymer thin film. Biocompatible, biodegradable polysaccharide-based film were developed for direct application at the tumor resection site during surgery. The films prevent the tumor local recurrence and reduce the chemotherapy side effects.
Film polisaccaridici per applicazione in sede operatoria
The technology proposed here allows to administer the chemotherapy locally during primary tumor surgical resection offering the opportunity to achieve high local concentrations and spare healthy tissues. Preclinical studies in rat and sheep confirmed the efficacy and safety of this approach, evidencing a reduced toxicity for an anticancer drug such as cisplatin in situations where after primary tumor ablation the application of the polymeric film in the pleural cavity prevented the tumor recurrence with metastases.
The technology find an application in the therapy of solid tumors and in particular of malignant pleural mesothelioma. The drug delivery platform can be adapted to the release of conventional or biopharmaceutical drugs. The technology answers to the necessity of delivering drugs in surgical settings, on mucosal tissues or body cavities. The control of the released drug is obtained by the selection of polymers and excipients.
Polysaccharide films for surgical application
Innovation in the therapy of mesothelioma: application of anticancer drugs loaded films for the prevention of tumor recurrence
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is an extremely aggressive tumor related to the professional exposure to asbestos. Because of the industrial use of asbestos this rare tumor has seen a steady incidence increase in the last few decades that wil reach the peak in Western countries between 2015 and 2020. Malignant pleural mesothelioma has a life expectancy of just 17 months and the 5 years survival is extremely poor. The current treatment of mesothelioma patients include surgical ablation and chemotherapy. However, one of the main problems is the local recurrence of the tumor. For this reason this innovative intrapleural therapy could be a solution for the control of tumor. Polymeric films offer control of the administered dose and increase of the residence time on the surface of application. In addition, polymer employed for film manufacturing favor bioadhesion and prolong the release of the drug. This approach allows to deliver the drugs already in use for the treatment of mesothelioma increasing their efficacy and reducing side effects.
Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma
The technology in the present embodiment is not protected by patent. Talks are ongoing with potential industrial partners in order to obtain the orphan drug designation for malignant pleural mesothelioma from EMA The designation will allow to obtain an exclusivity of 10 years for the marketing of the medicinal product.
Asbestos fibers are responsible of the development of malignant pleural mesothelioma