A next-generation sulfated hydrogel engineered from dendritic polyglycerol sulfate and polyether units forms a tunable, biocompatible network with potent antiviral activity. This innovative material is designed to mimic natural tissue properties for applications in regenerative medicine and antiviral therapy.

Innovation Explanation

Our patented hydrogel system fuses dendritic polyglycerol sulfate (dPGS) with poly(ethylene glycol) chains through robust click chemistry, creating a network with precisely adjustable mechanical properties. The hydrogel’s mesh size and elasticity can be finely tuned to replicate various soft tissues—such as mucus, cartilage, or synovial fluid. Comprehensive rheological and antiviral studies confirm its enhanced virus-binding capability along with high biocompatibility, offering a versatile platform for both 3D cell culture and direct antiviral therapeutics.

Key Innovation Features and Advantages

- Tunable Mechanics: Adjustable mesh size and storage modulus allow precise mimicry of native tissues.

- Robust Click Chemistry: Reproducible synthesis via click reactions ensures scalable, high-quality production.

- Enhanced Antiviral Efficacy: The sulfated framework binds and neutralizes viruses effectively.

- High Biocompatibility: Demonstrated safety and compatibility across diverse cellular models.

Use Cases

- Antiviral Therapeutics: Acts as a potent virus-trapping agent for reducing pathogen spread.

- 3D Tissue Scaffolds: Serves as an artificial extracellular matrix for advanced cell culture and tissue engineering.

- Medical Implants and Coatings: Can be applied as a protective, bioactive coating in biomedical devices.

Commercial Opportunities

- Targeting the Antiviral Market: Addresses critical demands in infection control and antiviral therapy.

- Regenerative Medicine Applications: Provides a new material for tissue engineering and cell scaffold development.

- Cost-Effective Scale-Up: A robust, scalable manufacturing process enhances market competitiveness and ROI.

Current Status

The hydrogel is at an advanced preclinical stage, with extensive characterization of its mechanical properties, cellular compatibility, and antiviral performance. Ongoing optimizations are focused on tailoring the hydrogel for specific clinical applications and achieving regulatory milestones.