US scientists zero in on nano based sun protection delivery
Researchers at the University of Nebraska (UNMC) have set up ProTransit Nanotherapies to market their latest nanotechnology discovery
Researchers at the University of Nebraska (UNMC) in the US have developed a more potent nanotechnology for use in sun care products and have set up a company, ProTransit Nanotherapies, to market it. They hope to be able to commercialise it within 18 months and it believed that the technology may also have applications in drug delivery.
Vinod Labhasetwar, formerly of UNMC and now a professor of biomedical engineering at the Lerner Research Institute at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, has developed nanoparticles that can carry a wide range of proteins, enzymes and genetic materials that can be customised to deliver targeted treatments.
The first application for the nanotechnology will be to deliver a blend of antioxidants in topical formulations to protect the skin from UV radiation.
To market the technology, Labhasetwar formed ProTransit Nanotherapy in collaboration with Gary Madsen, entrepreneur in residence at UNeMed Corporation, the technology transfer office at UNMC. Madsen will become President and CEO of the new company, while Dr Labhasetwar will serve as Chief Scientific Officer.
The company is also working with UNMC’s Centre for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine to develop nanoparticles and other nanomedical products.
