TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION
The present invention discloses a novel 3D (bio)printable hydrogel, the method for producing it and its use in T cell culture for immunotherapies. This hydrogel is based on a functionalized poly(ethylene)glycol (PEG) polymer covalently combined with heparin (Hep), which is loaded with at least one immune molecule.
The PEG-Hep hydrogel was combined with different positively charged biomolecules such as cytokines and cell-adhesive molecules to provide customized hydrogel scaffolds.
These scaffolds are able to mimic the extracellular matrix of the lymph nodes, thus showing potential to fabricate artificial lymph nodes for therapy and research models (organ on a chip).
High immune cell proliferation parameters have been obtained, essential to produce the necessary amounts of therapeutic T cells to reach the appropriate clinical doses.
The hydrogel can be used as a bioink for 3D printing, thus finding applications in biotechnology, medicine, and tissue engineering.
BENEFITS
Production of the necessary amounts of therapeutic T cells to reach the appropriate clinical doses.
LIMITATIONS
To be determined during further development.
APPLICATIONS
Patient need addressed:
Cancer
Autoimmune diseases
MATERIALS
Readiness Level (TRL)
 Patent Grading Report |
Patent Grading ReportThe Grading Patents Report evaluates and grades US patents Sample Buy from Wisdomain |
STATUS
Current status
European patent application (Priority date: May 21, 2020). Suitable for international extension (PCT application)
AVAILABILITY
Available for
Licensing or Assignment
INVENTOR / TEAM
Judit Guasch, Imma Ratera, Jaume Veciana, Eduardo Parez, Marc Martinez, Xavier Rodriguez, Roberto Santos, Miguel Angel Mateos, Elisabeth Engel
