Akinalytics
Midwest GMP
Polymer Blog
Technical Blog
John Garner, General ManagerA blog dedicated to answering technical questions in an open format relating to products from PolySciTech, a division of Akina, Inc.
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PLA-NHS from PolySciTech used in development of PLA-hyaluronate for brain cancer therapy
Thursday, June 4, 2026, 1:20 PM ET
Brain cancer remains difficult to treat due to problems with drug delivery. Researchers at Clemson University used PLA-NHS (cat# AI174 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AI174#h) to conjugate this polymer to amine-modified hyaluronic acid. This co-polymer was used for delivery of doxorubicin to glioblastoma cells. This research holds promise to provide for treatment of brain cancer in the future. Read more: Chaudhri, Apoorvi, Molli Garifo, Pranavi Thatavarthi, Torrick Fletcher Jr, and Jessica Larsen. "Hyaluronic acid-b-polylactic acid polymersomes facilitate CD44-mediated delivery of doxorubicin to glioblastoma in vitro." bioRxiv (2026): 2026-05. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.05.26.727934.abstract
“Glioblastoma represents a highly aggressive brain tumor with low survival and no response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Temozolomide, the current standard of care chemotherapy, improves patient survival by only about 6 months because of several resistance mechanisms, including unmethylated MGMT, which enables repair of chemotherapy-induced DNA damage. Thus, additional treatments strategies are necessary to investigate efficient responses towards glioblastoma. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic agent that is independent of MGMT methylation and instead works through inhibition of topoisomerase (TOPO) II, an enzyme necessary for DNA replication of the tumor. The inability of doxorubicin to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) precludes its use in glioblastoma. Polymersome nanoparticles have the potential to transport agents across the BBB. Here, we develop hyaluronic acid-b-polylactic acid (HA-PLA) polymeric nanoparticles called polymersomes, encapsulate them with DOX and investigate the ability of our system to induce apoptosis in a human glioblastoma cell line. The HA-PLA polymersomes show specificity and receptor-mediated endocytosis towards CD44-positive U87 glioblastoma cells due to the natural affinity of HA (hyaluronic acid) to CD44. Our HLA-PLA-DOX system promotes apoptosis of glioblastoma through inhibition of topoisomerase (TOPO) II. Thus, our system could allow tumor specificity through HA-CD44 affinity and slow drug release through pH sensitivity of PLA in the acidic tumor microenvironment.”
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Ashland-TM Distributed Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/
PrecisionGelTM from Vivos https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/vivos/
PLGA from PolySciTech used in development of nanoparticle based osteoarthritis treatment
Thursday, May 28, 2026, 2:38 PM ET
Researchers at Tufts University, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Brookhaven National Laboratory used PLGA (Cat# AP023 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP023#h) from PolySciTech division of Akina, Inc. to develop nanoparticles for treating osteoarthritis. This research holds promise to provide therapy for this debilitating disease. Read more: Dewani, Mahima, Anjali Rajesh Mamidwar, Miraj Rawal, Nutan Bhingaradiya, Jingshu Liu, Nishkal Pisal, Sihan Liu et al. "A disease-severity-responsive nanoparticle enables potent ghrelin messenger RNA therapy in osteoarthritis." Nature Nanotechnology (2026): 1-12. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41565-025-02101-0
“Intra-articular RNA therapeutics have shown promise in osteoarthritis (OA); however, maximizing their efficacy requires targeted delivery to degenerating cartilage within focal lesions. As OA progresses, cartilage degeneration worsens, necessitating disease-responsive targeting with enhanced delivery in advanced stages. Here we develop an anionic nanoparticle (NP) strategy for targeting glycosaminoglycan loss, a hallmark of OA’s progression that reduces cartilage’s negative charge. These NPs selectively diffuse and accumulate into matrix regions inversely correlated with glycosaminoglycan content owing to reduced electrostatic repulsion, a strategy we term ‘matrix inverse targeting’ (MINT). In a mouse model of OA, intra-articular delivery of luciferase messenger RNA-loaded MINT NPs demonstrated disease-severity-responsive expression. Using this strategy, we delivered ghrelin mRNA, as ghrelin has shown chondroprotection properties previously. Ghrelin mRNA-loaded MINT NPs reduced cartilage degeneration, subchondral bone thickening and nociceptive pain. Our findings highlight the potential of ghrelin mRNA delivery as a disease-modifying therapy for OA and the platform’s potential for lesion-targeted RNA delivery responsive to disease severity.”
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Fluorescent PLGA-Rhodamine from PolySciTech used in development of siRNA loaded nanoparticles
Thursday, May 28, 2026, 2:37 PM ET
“Efficient delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) remains a materials challenge because it requires nanocarriers that stabilize polyanionic cargo, support cellular interactions, and enable cytosolic delivery. Although poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) are used due to biocompatibility, biodegradability, and regulatory acceptance, siRNA delivery with PLGA requires interfacial engineering to meet these constraints. Here, a modular double-coated PLGA NP platform (dcNPs2.0) is developed and optimized for siRNA complexation, surface functionalization, and scalable manufacturing. The system comprises a PLGA core coated with a polyethyleneimine (PEI) interlayer to mediate siRNA binding, followed by a hyaluronic acid (HA) outer layer, which improves colloidal stability and promotes CD44-mediated uptake. Process optimization, including transition from batch nanoprecipitation to microfluidic fabrication, provides high yield, excellent reproducibility, narrow size distributions, and increased siRNA loading. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms hierarchical multilayer assembly. The optimized dcNPs2.0 formulation exhibited robust physicochemical stability during storage, in serum-containing media, and following lyophilization with appropriate cryoprotection. Functional evaluation of dcNPs2.0 demonstrated efficient HA-mediated cellular uptake and effective silencing following siRNA delivery in both two-dimensional monolayers and three-dimensional spheroids of MDA-MB-231 cells. Overall, this work establishes a scalable, rationally engineered PLGA nanoplatform that integrates extracellular targeting with intracellular delivery requirements for siRNA therapeutic applications. Keywords: PLGA nanoparticles, Surface engineering, siRNA delivery, CD44-mediated targeting, 3D models”
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PLGA from PolySciTech used in development of Improved broad-spectrum influenza A vaccine
Thursday, May 28, 2026, 2:36 PM ET
“Influenza A viruses (IAVs) cause substantial global morbidity and mortality and are responsible for most known viral pandemics. Their rapid antigenic evolution enables escape from natural and vaccine-induced immunity, requiring annual vaccine reformulation, which offers limited breadth and variable effectiveness. Although a universal influenza vaccine remains a critical objective, most strategies have focused on conserved viral glycoproteins to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies, with comparatively fewer efforts targeting conserved T cell antigens to achieve cross-subtype protection. Current T cell-based approaches often rely on individual CD8+ epitopes, which are limited by peptide instability, delivery constraints, and dependence on adjuvants. Here, we demonstrate a T cell-focused vaccine strategy that uses evolutionary consensus of IAV M1 and NP from the H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes to predict, map, and screen conserved regions enriched with multiple CD8+ and CD4+ epitopes. We selected the top-performing peptides from immunogenicity screening. We encapsulated them in polylactic-co-glycolic acid microparticles (PLGA-MPs) engineered for selective uptake by APCs and pH-dependent sustained release. Intranasal delivery of this vaccine formulation targeted the primary site of infection and induced robust mucosal immunity without the need for conventional adjuvants. Both human and murine influenza-experienced T cells mounted potent recall responses to the vaccine. In mice, immunization elicited strong CD8+ and CD4+ T cell responses and conferred broad protection against homologous H1N1 and H3N2 as well as heterologous H5N1 IAV subtypes. These findings collectively establish a mucosal, T cell-based vaccine platform that is adjuvant-free and capable of providing broad protection against IAV and other viruses with pandemic potential.”
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PLGA-Cysteine from PolySciTech used in development of photoresponsive nanocarriers for tuberculosis treatment
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 3:34 PM ET
Researchers at University of São Paulo used PLGA-cysteine (cat# AI025 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AI025#h) in development of rifampicin loaded and gold-nanorods containing particles for photoresponsive particles to deliver rifampicin directly to the lungs as part of tuberculosis therapy. This research holds promise to provide treatment of this lethal disease. Read more: de Barros Galvani, Pietra, Gabriela Maria Costa Ferreira, Valéria Maria de Oliveira Cardoso, Ualter Guilherme Cipriano, Angélica Maria Mazuera Zapata, Julia Mendonça Margatho, Paula Maria Pincela Lins et al. "Photoresponsive Nanocarriers for Potentiating Tuberculosis Therapy." ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2026). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11095-026-04110-7
“Drug-resistant and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) remain major challenges to effective treatment. Given that TB arises from complex bacterial survival mechanisms, addressing this multifactorial disease requires innovative and combinatorial therapeutic approaches. Although various strategies have been employed to overcome these issues, concerns regarding therapeutic efficacy persist due to the prolonged treatment duration and high toxicity. Here, we developed photoresponsive nanocarriers coencapsulating isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF), with or without gold nanorods (AuNRs), as a multifunctional platform for laser-assisted TB therapy. AuNRs were synthesized and functionalized with PLGA-SH to enable photothermal activation and integration into polymeric carriers. The resulting systems exhibited an average size of approximately 180 nm, zeta potentials around −28 mV, particle concentrations on the order of 1011 particles mL–1, as measured by nanoparticle tracking analysis, and average encapsulation efficiencies of 90% for both drugs. In vitro, photoactivated nanocarriers significantly reduced Mycobacterium tuberculosis burden in murine alveolar epithelial (MLE-15) cells and macrophages (BMDMs), as well as in human macrophages (THP-1), without inducing cytotoxicity. TB preclinical models demonstrated that laser-triggered nanocarriers significantly reduced pulmonary bacterial load in infected mice compared with untreated groups, even at low doses. These findings demonstrate that the formulation’s therapeutic efficacy depends on photothermal activation and support its potential as an adjuvant strategy for precision, light-assisted TB treatment, thereby reducing systemic exposure and minimizing toxicity.”
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PLGA-histidine and PLGA-FPI749 from PolySciTech used in development of nanoparticle delivery of nivolumab and galunisertib for lung cancer therapy
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 3:33 PM ET
“The incidence of cancer is among the leading causes of death worldwide, with more than 29 million people expected to be diagnosed by 2040. Despite advancements in cancer therapies, current immunotherapeutic approaches face challenges such as limited efficacy and off-target effects. To address these challenges, this study focuses on enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapeutics in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) through combination with a TGF- β inhibitor. A novel nanosystem was developed by co-loading galunisertib, a TGF-β inhibitor, and nivolumab, a PD-1 inhibitor, into spherical nanoparticles composed of PLGA derivatives conjugated with anti-EGFR for targeted delivery. In vitro characterization studies, including the nanoparticle size, zeta potential, morphology, drug release, toxicity evaluation in healthy and tumor cells, and T cell immune responses, demonstrated promising results. Based on these findings, in vivo studies were conducted on humanized mice that developed heterotopic xenograft tumors. In the concept of in vivo studies, biodistribution studies revealed that antibody-conjugated nanoparticles exhibited higher tumor accumulation compared to the control group. In vivo results further showed that co-drug loaded nanoparticles targeted to the tumor were more effective in reducing tumor size compared to non-targeted nanoparticles, achieving efficacy comparable to the combination of free drug and targeting ligand.”
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PLGA-Rhodamine from PolySciTech used for development of inhalable siRNA therapy for respiratory therapy
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 3:32 PM ET
Researchers at University of Napoli Federico II, Berlin Institute of Health, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, University of Milano, and University of British Columbia used PLGA-Rhodamine B (cat# AV011 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AV011#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) combined with ionizable lipids to form nanoparticles for siRNA delivery through inhaled formulations. This research holds promise to improve respiratory therapy. Read more: Brusco, Susy, Ersilia Villano, Teresa Silvestri, Amar J. Azad, Muge Molbay, Ivana d'Angelo, Agnese Miro et al. "Lipid@ polymer hybrid nanoparticles for efficient siRNA transport across the lung barriers: Mechanistic insights into the role of Ionizable lipids." Journal of Colloid and Interface Science (2026): 140683. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S002197972600860X
“Building on growing evidence that ionizable lipids improve RNA delivery, in this work, we developed ionizable lipid/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) hybrid nanoparticles (iLipid@PLGA hNPs), consisting in a PLGA core modified at surface with either 1,2-dioleoyloxy-3-dimethylaminopropane (DODMA), 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DODAP), or the branched-tail proprietary amino lipid ALC0315. iLipid@PLGA hNPs were engineered to meet key requirements for inhalation. Thorough physicochemical characterization revealed how the choice of ionizable lipid influences pH responsiveness, surface composition, and architecture of iLipid@PLGA hNPs. In vitro studies demonstrated effective siRNA encapsulation, adjustable release kinetics, and poor interactions with mucus components, as assessed by combined UV–Vis, Dynamic Light Scattering, and Small Angle X-ray Scattering analyses. Confocal microscopy analysis of A549 cells transfected with iLipid@PLGA hNPs showed reduced colocalization of AlexaFluor647-labeled siRNA with lysosomes over time, suggesting enhanced endosomal escape in the case of DODMA@PLGA hNPs. Functional validation using GAPDH-targeting siRNA (siGAPDH) confirmed cellular uptake and gene silencing in normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBEs) cells, confirming the superior performance of DODMA@PLGA hNPs. Finally, representative fluorescently labeled DODMA@PLGA hNPs successfully diffused across a 3D air–liquid interface (ALI) cell model, simulating the human bronchial epithelial barrier. These findings highlight the successful integration of ionizable lipids into polymeric nanoparticles, establishing iLipid@PLGA hNPs as versatile and efficient carriers for siRNA therapeutics. This breakthrough supports their continued development in respiratory nanomedicine and in the local treatment of lung diseases.”
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Polylactide from PolySciTech used in organic thin-film semiconductor development for solar energy applications
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 3:32 PM ET
“Thin films made of functional nanophases based on the semiconducting polymer poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) and the insulating hydrophilic polymer polylactic acid (PLA), combined with functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), were investigated. Exploiting phase separation phenomena between the polymers, nanostructured morphologies were obtained, where P3HT was either confined in isolated domains or formed continuous phases, depending on the experimental conditions. Following a bottom-up synthesis of thiol-functionalized AuNPs, interconnected network systems were obtained and spin-coated together with the polymeric materials to obtain thin films of AuNPs-embedded polymeric nanophases. Combining strategies from chemistry and materials science, i.e., bottom-up synthesis of hydrophobic AuNPs and P3HT/PLA nanophase confinement, it was possible to fine-tune the nanophase confinement, enhance transport properties, and modify the orientation of the P3HT chains through interfacially driven self-assembly. The structure–property relations of the nanomaterials were investigated, morphologically with AFM and morphostructurally with synchrotron radiation-induced GIWAXS studies, evidencing that the addition of AuNPs in the blend influences the backbone orientation of P3HT, switching it from a mixed orientation to a prevalently face-on one. Electrical measurements were correlated with morphological features to assess the impact of nanoconfinement and nanoparticle inclusion on transport properties, finding that AuNPs-induced reorientation leads to a 10-fold enhancement in the blend’s electrical conductivity.”
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PEG-PCL from PolySciTech used in development of nerve regeneration therapy for paralysis treatment.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 10:20 AM ET
After nerve injury, due to disease or trauma, skeletal muscles
undergo denervation atrophy which prevents the possibility for recovery from
paralysis. There is no treatment for this atrophy currently. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University used mPEG-PCL (AK128,
https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK128#h)
from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com)
to develop a nanofiber hydrogel composite which delivers myoblast cells along
with growth factors to encourage nerve tissue regeneration. This was tested in
rat model and showed promise to restore strength and mobility. This research
holds promise to provide for treatment of nerve-tissue damage based paralysis.
Read more: Dias, Shaquielle, William Padovano, Chenhu Qiu, Thomas Harris,
Rachana Suresh, Erica Lee, Eszter Mihaly et al. "Myoblast Therapy
Ameliorates Skeletal Muscle Atrophy Resulting From Chronic
Denervation." Muscle & Nerve (2026). https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/mus.70254
“Skeletal muscle undergoes progressive denervation-induced
muscle atrophy (DIMA) after peripheral nerve injury that severely impairs the
potential for motor functional recovery with reinnervation. There are currently
no therapeutic strategies to reverse the deleterious effects of chronic DIMA,
leaving affected patients with lifelong disability. Herein, we used a
translational rodent forelimb nerve injury model to investigate whether
targeted injection of syngeneic myoblasts to chronically atrophic muscle can
reverse the histologic and functional consequences of DIMA. Male Lewis rats
underwent median nerve transection followed by immediate (positive control) or
delayed repair. Following a plateau of motor function, myoblasts were injected
into the digital flexor muscles (n = 5–6 per
group), delivered in either saline or a nanofiber hydrogel composite (NHC)
loaded with agrin- and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)-releasing
nanoparticles (npNHC). Serial functional assessments of stimulated grip
strength and terminal histological evaluation were used to measure recovery. Satellite
cell-rich (Pax7Hi) myoblast therapy caused sustained improvement in stimulated
grip strength from pretreatment baseline (p < 0.05). Histological evaluation
demonstrated that myoblast therapy, when delivered in npNHC, reversed whole
muscle atrophy compared to positive controls [p = 0.997 and 0.996] and restored
mean myofiber cross-sectional area [p = 0.244]. Correlation analysis
demonstrated functional improvements were associated with increased myofiber
cross-sectional area [r = 0.900, p = 3.01E-09].
This data indicates that targeted injection of syngeneic myoblasts can reverse
the functional and histologic effects of DIMA in skeletal muscles and is a
promising strategy for improving recovery after peripheral nerve injuries.”
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to Bedside with MidWestGMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/
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Open Position: Business Assistant
Friday, April 24, 2026, 7:57 AM ET
Business Assistant
Responsibilities:
Routine office work including processing orders, paying bills, receiving packages, taking calls, providing quotes/invoices to customers, tracking income/expenses, and other administrative tasks as needed. Work is to be performed part-time, on site at Akina’s location in West Lafayette, IN (8AM-12PM, Mon-Fri, or equivalent).
Requirements:
Relevant work experience in administrative/accounting role(s). Prior work experience or training with accounting software (Quickbooks) required.
To apply:
If you are interested please send your resume to General Manager, John Garner jg@akinainc.com
Pay:
$30.00/hr
PEG-PLGA polymers from PolySciTech: Akina used in development of brain-curcumin delivery system as treatment of Fetal Growth Restriction
Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 3:12 PM ET
Researchers at University of Washington and The University of Queensland used mPEG-PLGA (AK106, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK106#h) and PLGA-PEG-NH2 (AI189, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AI189#h) in development of curcumin delivery system to brain tissue. This research holds promise to provide for treatment of fetal growth restriction which can potentially lead to cerebral palsy. Read more: Xu, Nuo, Julie Wixey, Kirat Chand, Megan Wong, and Elizabeth Nance. "Nano-formulated curcumin uptake and biodistribution in the fetal growth restricted newborn piglet brain." Drug delivery and translational research 16, no. 3 (2026): 945-959. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13346-025-01830-y
“Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 5% to 10% of all pregnancies in developed countries and is the second most leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. Life-long consequences of FGR range from learning and behavioral issues to cerebral palsy. To support the newborn brain following FGR, timely and accessible neuroprotection strategies are needed. Curcumin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles, which have been widely explored for the treatment of cancer, neurological disorders, and bacterial infections, have the potential to prevent and mitigate pathogenic inflammatory processes in the FGR brain. Curcumin is a hydrophobic molecule with poor aqueous solubility and therefore has been incorporated into nanoparticles to improve solubility and delivery. However, curcumin loading in many nanoparticles can be limited to 10% by weight or lower. Here, we first optimize the formulation process of curcumin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles to find a tunable, reproducible, and stable formulation with high curcumin loading and encapsulation efficiency. We establish a curcumin formulation with 39% curcumin loading and > 95% curcumin encapsulation efficiency. Using this formulation, we assessed the biodistribution of polymeric nanoparticles in FGR piglets and normally grown (NG) piglets following different administration routes and evaluated brain cellular uptake. We show a significant amount of nanoparticle accumulation in the brain parenchyma of neonatal piglets as early as 4 h after intranasal administration. Nanoparticles colocalized in microglia, a therapeutic target of interest in FGR brain injury. This study demonstrates the potential of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles to treat neuroinflammation associated with FGR in the newborn.”
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PCL from PolySciTech used in development of photo-activated dexamethasone releasing implant for vocal cord repair
Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 3:03 PM ET
Researchers at University of Cincinnati used polycaprolactone (AP011 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP011#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop a photo-activated implant which delivers dexamethasone upon irradiation with IR light. This can be used for local delivery of anti-inflammatory compound as a prevention strategy for scarring. This holds promise to provide for treatment of vocal scarring, a common result of iatrogenic trauma that often leads to voice disorders. Read more: Cruz, Denzel Ryan D., Nour Awad, Avery Zheng, Alexander Karabachev, Charles Farbos de Luzan, Yoonjee C. Park, and Gregory R. Dion. "Vocal Fold Scar Treatment via Controlled Dexamethasone Delivery With a Light‐Activatable Implant." The Laryngoscope 136, no. 3 (2026): 1311-1319. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/lary.70149
“Intralesional steroid injections for vocal fold (VF) scarring are rapidly cleared, limiting their effectiveness. This study evaluates the efficacy of a light-activatable dexamethasone implant compared to a single steroid injection for VF scar healing. Ten rabbits underwent endoscopic VF injury and were treated with either a dexamethasone injection or a light-activatable implant; injured-only and no-injury VFs served as controls. On days 0 and 21, VF implants were irradiated with a near-infrared pulsed laser for 1 min. Larynges were harvested after 42 days. High-speed video (> 10 kHz) of excised larynges captured VF vibrations for kymographic analysis. Normal force, structural stiffness, and displacement were measured. Data were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests. Compared to injury-only VFs, implant-treated VFs demonstrated significantly reduced normal force and stiffness (5.28 ± 0.77 mN vs. 2.34 ± 0.66 mN, p < 0.0001; 17.74 ± 2.45 mN/mm vs. 6.80 ± 1.32 mN/mm, p < 0.0001), and increased displacement at 1.96 mN (0.14 ± 0.02 mm vs. 0.29 ± 0.05 mm, p < 0.0001) along the injury zone. Implant-treated VFs exhibited larger amplitude ratios and improved tissue architecture than untreated scars. No differences in quantitative measures were observed between implant-treated and injection-treated groups. A light-activatable dexamethasone implant improved VF biomechanics, vibratory behavior, and histological outcomes in a rabbit injury model comparable to a single steroid injection. This novel approach shows promise for delivering controlled, repeatable therapy to VF scars.”
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PLGA from Akina, Inc. used in development of multi-stage drug-delivery system for treatment of gastric ulcers
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 3:57 PM ET
Researchers at Pusan National University, Daegu Catholic University, National University of Medical Sciences (Pakistan), and Hasanuddin University used PLGA (AP037 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP037#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to create particles for drug-delivery to gastric region for treatment of H. Pylori infection. This research holds promise to treat difficult bacterial infections. Read more: Kim, Hyunwoo, Dongmin Kwak, Juho Lee, Minjeong Kim, Muneeb Ullah, Md Lukman Hakim, Muhammad Naeem et al. "Polydopamine-mediated multi-stage delivery for precise local therapy of Helicobacter pylori–infected gastric ulcers." Journal of Controlled Release (2026): 114869. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168365926002713
“The effective treatment of Helicobacter pylori-infected gastric ulcers requires precise local delivery of antibiotics to the deep-seated pathogens within the inflamed tissue. However, the complex gastric environment poses significant biological barriers, necessitating distinct functional requirements for efficient mucus penetration and robust bacterial adhesion. In this study, we developed polydopamine-functionalized and clarithromycin-loaded nanoparticles designed for a sequential multi-stage delivery cascade. The polydopamine-mediated interface provided colloidal stability in the acidic gastric lumen, reduced premature drug leakage, and facilitated mucus penetration by minimizing interactions with the mucin network. At the infection site, the chemical properties of the functionalized surface facilitated robust and ligand-independent adhesion to Helicobacter pylori. In vivo investigations using a murine model revealed nanoparticle penetration of up to 400 μm into the ulcerated tissue. This precise targeting yielded approximately 99.9% bacterial reduction, significantly accelerating ulcer healing at an antibiotic dose 10-fold lower than that used in conventional systemic therapy. These findings establish the polydopamine-mediated delivery cascade as a promising platform for the precise local treatment of Helicobacter pylori-associated inflammatory gastric diseases.”
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mPEG-PLGA from PolySciTech: Akina used in development of nanoparticle-based treatment of psoriasis
Thursday, April 2, 2026, 3:56 PM ET
Researchers at Tongji University and Adelaide University used mPEG-PLGA (AK026, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK026#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to create nanoparticle loaded gel formulation for delivery of apremilast as part of psoriasis treatment. This research holds promise to provide for improved therapy against this chronic, immune-mediated skin disease. Read More: Zhao, Zihan, Letao Xu, Yun Liu, Xing Wang, Yue Hui, Yilong Fan, Yuling Shi, and Chun-Xia Zhao. "Topical delivery of high-drug-loading nanoparticle gels for psoriasis treatment." Journal of Nanobiotechnology 24, no. 1 (2026): 252. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12951-026-04120-y
“Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disease characterised by epidermal hyperplasia and compromised barrier integrity, which significantly complicates effective drug delivery. Topical drug delivery (TDD) offers a promising, non-invasive, and patient-centric alternative therapy for its management. However, the efficacy of TDD is constrained by the markedly thickened stratum corneum in psoriatic lesion skin, which acts as a formidable barrier to effective drug penetration. In this work, we developed a high-drug-loading TDD system for the highly effective topical delivery of apremilast (APR), an FDA-approved oral treatment for psoriasis. Using a sequential nanoprecipitation method, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and polymer nanoparticles (PNPs) loaded with 40% APR, defined as the weight ratio of APR relative to the total nanoparticle formulation, were synthesized and embedded into Carbopol 940 gel for enhanced skin compatibility and topical application. Ex vivo studies revealed enhanced intradermal retention of LNPs Carbopol® 940 gel (LNPG) and greater subdermal accumulation of PNPs Carbopol® 940 gel (PNPG). In an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model, treatment with both formulations resulted in marked clinical improvements, including reduced PASI scores, decreased epidermal thickness, and reduced spleen size. Furthermore, both LNPG and PNPG systems significantly downregulated psoriasis-associated cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CXCL8, and CCL20). These findings demonstrate the robust therapeutic potential of high-drug-loading NP gels and highlight their promise as a patient-friendly TDD platform for psoriasis and other dermatological conditions with a compromised barrier function.”
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PLCL from PolySciTech used for development of sprayable solution to prevent surgical adhesion
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 3:19 PM ET
Post-surgical adhesion occurs when fibrous bridges connect adjacent surfaces after surgery creating a painful situation for the patient and can potentially lead to other complications. Researchers at University of Maryland, Children’s National Medical Center, and U.S. Army DEVCOM used PLCL’s (AP151 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP151#h, AP179 https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP179#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) were combined with PEG and solvent to develop a sprayable system to prevent surgical adhesions. This research holds promise to provide for prevention of surgical problems. Read more: Morris III, Robert J., Tejaswi Nori, Alex I. Halpern, Hannah LaPadula, Arthur V. Cresce, Sarah L. Wright, Anthony D. Sandler, and Peter Kofinas. "Sprayable Polymer Blends With Short‐Chain Surface Segregation for Preventing Postoperative Abdominal Adhesions." Advanced Healthcare Materials (2026): e05289. https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/adhm.202505289
“Adhesions are common post-surgical complications where fibrous tissue bridges adjacent surfaces following tissue injury. Although Seprafilm is a widely used clinical prophylactic, it often proves inadequate due to suboptimal mechanical stability and applicability. Solution Blow Spinning (SBS) enables the formation of polymer fibers tailored to complex geometries with excellent tissue adherence. Poly(D,L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) polymer has shown promise as an adhesions barrier but remains inconsistent because of its inherent tackiness and hydrophobicity. Here, high molecular weight (HMW) PLCL (40 or 80 kDa) was blended with low molecular weight (LMW) polyethylene glycol (PEG, 1 or 3 kDa). In vitro studies confirmed that PLCL/PEG fibers achieved tissue adhesion strengths above 10 kPa and sustained mechanical performance throughout clinically relevant degradation timelines. Blending PEG changes the surface composition of the spray-deposited mats, substantially improving the hydrophilic character and lowering protein adherence in vitro. In a murine cecal ligation model, the PLCL/PEG blends demonstrated significantly reduced adhesion severity and incidence compared to both untreated and Seprafilm-treated controls.”
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Open Position at Akina: Webmaster
Monday, March 23, 2026, 9:30 AM ET
Akina Webmaster
Responsibilities:
To provide maintenance, updates, and upgrades for Akina, Inc. owned websites, both external and internal. Interface with external network support contractor to solve IT related issues. Support relevant database operations including sales, billing, and inventory control as it relates to interface with external accounting software, external logistics software, and other operations. Work is to be performed on site at Akina’s location in West Lafayette, IN during normal business hours (8AM-5PM, Mon-Fri).
Requirements:
A strong background in relevant coding languages (php, javascript, html), database management (mysql), and linux-based server management is required. A minimum of a bachelor's degree in field specific education is required and relevant work experience is considered a plus.
To apply:
If you are interested please send your resume to General Manager, John Garner jg@akinainc.com
Pay:
$40.00/hr
See more https://akinainc.com/employment.php
PLGA-FKR648 from PolySciTech used in development of nanoparticles for colorectal cancer therapy
Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 2:15 PM ET
Colorectal cancer is an extremely common form of cancer which often leads to death in advanced stages. Researchers at Universidade do Porto used PLGA-FKR648 (AV015, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AV015#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop NIR traceable nanoparticles for treatment of colorectal cancer. This research holds promise for improved therapies in the future. Read more: Baião, Ana, Flávia Castro, Juliana Viegas, Andreia S. Barros, Sofia Dias, Carla Oliveira, and Bruno Sarmento. "Targeted nanoparticle delivery of irinotecan enhances tumor response to PD-L1 blockade in colorectal cancer." Journal of Controlled Release (2026): 114609. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168365926000106
“Abstract: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer mortality, with limited therapeutic options in advanced stages. CD44v6, a splice variant overexpressed in CRC, promotes tumor progression and immune evasion, representing a relevant target for selective drug delivery. In this work, irinotecan-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles functionalized with CD44v6 ligands (Iri@NP-v6) were developed to improve irinotecan delivery and therapeutic responses in CRC. Iri@NP-v6 showed controlled physicochemical properties, high drug loading, and sustained release. In vitro, targeted NPs achieved selective uptake and enhanced cytotoxicity in CD44v6+ CRC cell lines. In immune-stromal co-culture spheroids, Iri@NP-v6 combined with anti-PD-L1 reduced viability, promoted Th1-associated cytokines, and limited tumor-supportive MCP-1 production. While NP monotherapy induced mixed inflammatory signals, PD-L1 blockade redirected this response toward a Th1-dominated profile. In immunocompetent mice with MC38 tumors, combination therapy significantly reduced tumor burden and increased CD4+ and CD8+ T cell infiltration without systemic toxicity. Importantly, free irinotecan triggered broad systemic inflammation, whereas NP-based delivery limited systemic cytokine release while maintaining intratumoral immune activation. These findings demonstrate that CD44v6-targeted irinotecan NPs in combination with PD-L1 blockade, reshape the CRC immune microenvironment while reducing systemic inflammation, supporting their potential as a tumor-selective chemo-immunotherapy platform. Graphical abstract: This study shows that specially designed nanoparticles can target colorectal cancer cells and deliver chemotherapy more effectively. When combined with immunotherapy, the treatment decreases tumor volume, boosts immune response, and causes no major side effects in mice. These results suggest a promising new approach to improve cancer treatment using targeted nanomedicine.”
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PLGA from PolySciTech used in the controlled delivery of Chlorohexidine as part of developing antibacterial ear-tags for farm animal tracking.
Monday, March 9, 2026, 11:42 AM ET
In addition to medical technology one of the areas where a substantial quantity of humanitarian good can be achieved is in the field of improving food production. Reports suggest that infection rates following ear tagging may range from 10 to 30% in commercial operations. One means to prevent this is to have controlled release of an anti-infective agent. Researchers at University of Arizona, University of Prince Edward Island, and University of Montreal used PLGA (AP293, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP293#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop an anti-infective coating for ear-tags. This research holds promise to improve the sustainability of the food supply by reducing loss. Read more: Cartmell, Christopher, Emad Naseri, Russell G. Kerr, Daniel Hurnik, Chelsea Martin, and Ali Ahmadi. "Biopierces: drug-eluting ear tags for infection prevention in animal tagging." Frontiers in Veterinary Science 12 (2026): 1696488. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12964366/
“Ear tagging is a routine practice in livestock management, but it can be associated with bacterial colonization and infection at puncture sites. This study evaluated drug-eluting ear tags (Biopierce), incorporating chlorhexidine (CHX) in a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) matrix, due to their ability to reduce microbial burden and support wound healing. Biopierce eartags were fabricated by coating commercial ear tags with CHX–PLGA and compared to untreated controls. In vitro, Biopierces demonstrated a rapid burst release of CHX (~75% within 2 h), plateauing by 8 h, with eluates showing strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus in disk and tag diffusion assays. In vivo, five adult commercial boars each received one Biopierce and one control tag, with bacterial colonization assessed at 3, 7, 14, and 28 days using MALDI-TOF identification and semi-quantitative scoring. The Biopierce tags significantly reduced bacterial load, halving the prevalence of heavy contamination (27% vs. 12.6%, p = 0.0015) and doubling the prevalence of scant growth (9% vs. 21%, p = 0.017). Mean bacterial load scores were significantly lower with Biopierces (2.25 vs. 2.73, p < 0.05), and regression modeling confirmed a 20.1% reduction (p < 0.001). Histopathology on Day 28 showed trends toward reduced swelling (+45.2% vs. +57.6%) and increased full epithelialization (66% vs. 37%), though these did not reach statistical significance due to the small sample size. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Biopierce eartags provide localized CHX delivery that reduces bacterial colonization at tagging sites and may promote improved healing, supporting their potential as a practical infection and inflammation prevention strategy in livestock management. Keywords: animal tagging, biomaterials, drug eluting constructs, infection, piercing”
PCL from PolySciTech used in development of pH responsive nanocarriers for arthritis treatment
Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 1:19 PM ET
Psoralen is a naturally occurring furanocoumarin which can interact with DNA chains and is highly light sensitive. Due to it’s interactions with DNA, any medical use of it must be carefully localized to prevent unwanted side effects. Researchers at China Three Gorges University used PCL (AP257, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP257#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop pH sensitive nanocarriers which deliver psoralen to the site of arthritis. This research holds promise to develop a treatment for this debilitating disease. Read more: Zhu, Lixian, Zhijie Gao, Tengyue Zhang, Hechao Zhao, Dexian Zeng, and Yanhua Wang. "Psoralen-loaded polycaprolactone microspheres: A pH-responsive drug carrier for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis." Materials Chemistry and Physics 354 (2026): 132185. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0254058426001768
“Developing novel drug carriers for delivery of psoralen (PSO) is crucial to inhibit the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This work aims to develop PSO-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres through a single emulsion solvent evaporation route, improving the bioavailability and controllable release of PSO. The resulting PCL@PSO microspheres are characterized by multiple physicochemical techniques. Results show the loading of PSO onto PCL, via surface adsorption, increases the size and specific surface area. Accordingly, the encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of PCL@PSO microspheres are (87.77 ± 0.07)% and (12.28 ± 0.01)%, respectively. Strikingly, such microspheres exhibit pH-responsive drug kinetics, predominantly releasing PSO in alkaline environments in contrast with neutral or acidic conditions. This release pattern, mostly caused by diffusion, is conducive to inhibit inflammatory response whilst promote osteanagenesis in bone microenvironment. Cell experiments confirm PCL@PSO microspheres are cytocompatible with BMSCs cell but strongly toxic to RBL-2H3 cell. Mechanistically, mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, as evidenced by the up-regulation of pro-apoptosis proteins such as Caspase3, Cyto-c and Bax, is activated by PCL@PSO via increased ROS and reduced mitochondria membrane potentials. Further, the up-regulation of APC and LATS1, and the down-regulation of OIP5 are contributed to the apoptosis of RBL-2H3 cell. Moreover, PCL@PSO could down-regulate the expression of histamine receptor HRH1 in RBL-2H3 cell, thereby inhibiting inflammation expansion. However, the study is limited by the absence of in vivo animal validation, and the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. In particular, the upstream regulatory pathways governing ROS generation have yet to be comprehensively investigated. Conclusively, it is feasible to use PCL@PSO microspheres as candidate micro-carriers to deliver PSO, terminally inhibiting inflammatory response whilst promoting osteanagenesis, especially for individuals suffered from rheumatoid arthritis.”
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PLA-PCL-PEG-PCL-PLA from PolySciTech used in development of dexamethasone loaded nanoparticles to investigate glaucoma
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 8:57 AM ET
Steroidal anti-inflammatories are a powerful class of drugs for management of inflammation however these have serious side-effects. Steroid-induced glaucoma (SIG) is a secondary, often silent, form of open-angle glaucoma caused by elevated eye pressure (intraocular pressure, or IOP) from prolonged corticosteroid use. Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Duke University, and Spelman College, utilized PLA-PCL-PEG-PCL-PLA (AK099, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK099#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to research the pathology of glaucoma by inducing the disease state in a mouse model and exploring the factors contributing to IOP. This research holds promise to provide a better understanding of this often blinding disease. Read more: Wong, Cydney A., A. Thomas Read, Guorong Li, Amia Loveless, Nina Sara Fraticelli Guzman, Andrew J. Feola, Todd Sulchek, W. Daniel Stamer, and C. Ross Ethier. "Segmental outflow and trabecular meshwork stiffness in an ocular hypertensive mouse model." bioRxiv (2026): 2026-02. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.02.03.703547.abstract
“Purpose Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) due to increased outflow resistance through the trabecular meshwork (TM) is a major risk factor for primary open-angle glaucoma. Outflow through the TM is segmental, consisting of high flow (HF) and low flow (LF) regions. Here, we investigate how ocular hypertension impacts segmental outflow using a dexamethasone (DEX) mouse model and compare TM stiffness between HF and LF regions. Methods Nanoparticles containing DEX or vehicle were injected twice weekly in 2–4-month-old C57BL/6J mice (n=14), and IOP was measured weekly. At week 4, mouse eyes were perfused in vivo with fluorescent nanospheres to assess flow patterns and the circumferential percentage of high, intermediate, and low flow regions in each eye. Sagittal sections were collected from HF and LF regions, and atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to measure tissue stiffness. Immunofluorescent labeling was used to compare fibronectin and α-SMA protein levels. Results DEX treatment significantly elevated IOP by an average of 33.3% and altered tracer distribution but not the percentage of HF and LF regions around the circumference. No significant differences in TM stiffness were detected between DEX-treated and control mice, or between HF and LF regions. Increased fibronectin in LF regions of DEX-treated eyes suggested subtle TM structural changes that were not detected by AFM. Conclusions Dexamethasone alters segmental flow distribution and may impact cell contractility rather than ECM stiffness to cause IOP elevation in young mice. These findings better characterize the nature of segmental outflow and TM mechanics in this model of steroid-induced glaucoma.”
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Website Notice: 2/11/2026
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 9:36 AM ET
Akina, Inc.'s web server is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Thank you for your patience as we work on this issue. To place orders or make inquiries, please call 765-464-0501. For sales inquiries please contact salesakinainc@gmail.com and for technical inquiries please contact jgakinainc@gmail.com
mPEG-PLA from PolySciTech used in research on micelle formation and behavior.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 8:53 AM ET
“Polymeric micelles have the potential to improve the efficacy and safety of drug delivery by improving drug solubility, enhancing bioaccumulation and reducing off-target toxicity. Despite excellent safety profiles, a major limitation with polymeric micelles is their inability to rapidly release their payload once they have reached their target, leading to the inadequate delivery of therapeutic doses. To address this limitation, we have developed a novel strategy to impart pH-responsiveness in non-responsive micelles through the co-encapsulation of oligoelectrolytes with drugs. Herein, we investigate the influence of copolymer composition and drug identity in combination with oligoelectrolyte—oligo(2-vinyl pyridine) (OVP)—loading on pH-triggered drug release from micelles and their cytotoxicity. A library of OVP-loaded micelles was prepared using conventional and well-established non-responsive block copolymers. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) was used to monitor the changes in the micelles as a function of pH. Regardless of the copolymer composition, an abrupt decrease in the hydrodynamic diameter (Dh) was observed as the pH was reduced due to OVP expulsion from the core, which was also confirmed by release studies. In general, co-encapsulation of OVP and model drugs (doxorubicin (DOX), gossypol (GP), paclitaxel (PX), and 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN38)) in the micelles provided good to excellent encapsulation efficiency percentage (EE%) values. In vitro studies revealed the pH triggered release of drugs from the OVP-loaded micelles regardless of the drug identity, which increased as the OVP loading increased. This general behaviour was observed in all cases, largely independent of the copolymer composition, albeit with subtle differences in the release profile for different drugs. Compared to their blank counterparts, the drug-loaded micelles displayed a slight increase in cytotoxicity against a panel of cancer cell lines, in a dose dependent manner. However, drug- and OVP-loaded micelles displayed a significant increase in cytotoxicity (up to 8-fold increase) that was independent of the copolymer composition. These results demonstrate the versatility of the oligoelectrolyte-mediated approach to furnish non-responsive micelles with a pH-trigger that allows the rapid release of drugs, regardless of the micelle composition or the drug identity. Keywords: diblock copolymer, polymeric micelles, oligoelectrolyte, pH-responsive, triggered release, drug delivery”
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PLGA from PolySciTech used in development of delivery system for mallotumide A as a treatment for triple negative breast cancer
Tuesday, January 27, 2026, 2:09 PM ET
Mallotumide is a cycloheptapeptide with anticancer activity. To this date, triple-negative breast cancer remains resistant to most treatment options. Researchers at Mahidol University and Academia Sinica, PLGA (AP059, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP059#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop a targeted, nanoparticle for anticancer therapy towards this form of breast cancer. This research holds promise to provide for treatment against breast cancer. Read more: Manohong, Preeyanuch, Natthapat Sawektreeratana, Sopon Nuchpun, Tipaporn Kumkoon, Pattaree Payomhom, Chayanee Laowittawat, Sarawut Jitrapakdee et al. "Encapsulation of Plant‐Derived Cycloheptapeptide Mallotumide A in Riboflavin‐Modified Poly (Lactic‐Co‐Glycolic Acid)/Chitosan Nanoparticles." Macromolecular Materials and Engineering 311, no. 1 (2026): e00385. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/mame.202500385
“Mallotumide A (MA) is a novel cycloheptapeptide isolated from the roots of Mallotus spodocarpus Airy Shaw. It exerts anticancer activity by downregulating several lipogenic enzymes and cellular respiration, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer. However, MA has poor water solubility and is highly toxic to both cancer and normal cells, limiting its therapeutic applications. To address these drawbacks, MA was encapsulated within poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) and coated with riboflavin (Rf)-modified chitosan (CR), creating (MA)PLGA/CR NPs. This study characterized the NPs and investigated their encapsulation efficiency of MA, cellular uptake, and anticancer activity in two breast cancer (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) and normal (MCF-10A) cell lines. The NPs were spherical with an average size of 300 ± 6.64 nm and a zeta potential of +11.96 mV. The PLGA/CR NPs exhibited enhanced cellular uptake in both cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, while reducing toxicity in normal cells. Furthermore, the (MA)PLGA/CR NPs inhibited the viability, migration, and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells, thereby demonstrating their potential as a targeted anticancer delivery system.”
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PLGA from PolySciTech used in development of bone-tissue scaffolding for tissue regeneration
Thursday, January 22, 2026, 2:01 PM ET
In order to heal defects in bone caused by either disease or trauma, there needs to be a scaffold or a structure for bone cells to attach to and grow. Ideally this structure would mimic the properties of the natural extracellular matrix of bone. Researchers at Pennsylvania State University and Westlake University (China) Used PLGA (Cat# AP230, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP230#h) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) as part of their development of bone tissue scaffolding. This research holds promise to improve regenerative medicine. Read more: Wang, Yuqi, Su Yan, Xinyu Tan, Ethan Gerhard, Hui Xu, Haiyue Jiang, and Jian Yang. "The genesis of citrated ultrathin hydroxyapatite nanorods." Science Advances 12, no. 3 (2026): eaeb6538. https://www.science.org/doi/full/10.1126/sciadv.aeb6538
“Ideal orthopedic biomaterials should replicate both the hierarchical structure and exceptional mechanical strength of natural bone. Traditional polymer-hydroxyapatite composites, typically limited up to 40 wt % hydroxyapatite, offer only modest mechanical improvements. Efforts to enhance strength by using stiffer polymers have largely failed, as increased polymer stiffness does not translate to improved composite mechanics. In contrast, natural bone’s load-bearing capability arises from the synergy between citrate, soft collagen, and ultrathin hydroxyapatite nanocrystals (~3 nanometers). Here, we show that elastic poly(octamethylene citrate) enables up to 60 wt % hydroxyapatite incorporation, mimicking the bone’s mineral content. Through a top-down “citrification” process and hot pressing, hydroxyapatite microparticles are partially dissolved and recrystallized into superthin (~5 nanometers) nanorods, enhancing organic-inorganic integration and replicating bone’s Ca/P ratios and architecture. The resulting composites exhibit compressive strengths exceeding 250 megapascals, unprecedented in polymer-mineral systems, offering a molecular design strategy for next-generation load-bearing orthopedic implants.”
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PLGA from PolySciTech used in development of bone-targeting nanoparticles for treatment of MRSA
Monday, January 12, 2026, 9:07 AM ET
Bacterial infection of bone tissue is extremely difficult to treat due to poor drug delivery. Researchers at Temple University (Philadelphia) used PLGA (Cat# AP022, https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP022#h) ) from PolySciTech : Akina, Inc. (www.PolySciTech.com) to develop bone-targeting nanoparticles for treatment of bone-MRSA. This research holds promise to provide treatment for this disease. Read more: Guo, Pengbo, Bettina A. Buttaro, Hui Yi Xue, Ngoc T. Tran, and Ho Lun Wong. "Bone-targeting lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles for less invasive, injectable local antibiotic treatment of bone infections by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)." International Journal of Pharmaceutics (2025): 126539. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517325013766
“Effective treatment of osteomyelitis caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) requires sufficiently high antibiotic concentrations at the infected bone sites. Local drug therapy such as antibiotic-impregnated beads or cement is a valuable option but requires invasive surgical procedures for implantation and sometimes removal. In this study, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles decorated with alendronate, known as bone-targeting nanoparticles (BTN), were tailored for local antibiotic treatment of MRSA-osteomyelitis in a bone-targeting fashion. BTN loading linezolid demonstrated size around 100 nm in diameter that remained stable in serum- or calcium- supplemented medium, encapsulation efficiency around 60 % and controlled drug release properties, and were shown to be significantly more effective than free linezolid against MRSA both in their biofilm and intracellular forms. Significant bone-targeting affinity was demonstrated in hydroxyapatite screening (5.5-fold enhancement over no-alendronate nanoparticles) and ex vivo porcine bone model. BTN injected into animal legs resulted in lasting local bone-accumulation of nanoparticles with minimal distribution to most remote organs, leading to up to 34.9-fold antibiotic level enhancement at the injected bone legs over free drug group. In animal osteomyelitis model, BTN groups achieved multiple log10 scale reduction (p < 0.01) in bacteria CFU counts post-treatment with less blood platelet count reduction (p < 0.05) when compared with free drug group. Overall, this study highlights the excellent potential of a more active, less invasive nanodelivery-based approach for targeting those poorly accessible MRSA pathogens of osteomyelitis.”
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These posts are syndicated from John Garner's blog at http://jgakinainc.blogspot.com/ where you can post a question or comment. (Load took 0.43862009048462 seconds)
