Technology Overview

Implantable meshes and porous polymer films are widely used in surgical, regenerative, and device‑based applications, but current products often separate structural support from drug delivery functions. This platform uses a reaction‑diffusion‑driven process to form porous thermoplastic elastomer meshes with controlled morphology while simultaneously incorporating active agents into the polymer matrix. The result is non‑woven meshes with uniform, tunable pore structures that can provide both mechanical performance and programmable release of therapeutics, prophylactics, or diagnostic agents.

Modality

The technology is a process‑level platform based on parallel reaction and diffusion during precipitation of thermoplastic elastomers. It generates uniform, tunable pores without complex tooling or manual patterning, improving consistency and reducing process complexity. Active agents (e.g., small molecules, antimicrobials, biologics) are incorporated during fabrication without disrupting pore formation, creating drug‑eluting meshes and films in a single manufacturing step.

Target Use Cases

The platform targets implantable and biomedical polymer products where both structural performance and local delivery are critical. It is compatible with thermoplastic elastomers already used in regulated medical devices, facilitating translation to indications such as soft‑tissue reinforcement, regenerative scaffolds, and drug‑eluting device components.

Example Applications

• Drug‑eluting surgical meshes for hernia repair or soft‑tissue reinforcement
• Antimicrobial or anti‑inflammatory coatings for implantable devices
• Controlled‑release scaffolds for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering
• Porous polymer films for localized delivery of therapeutics or prophylactic agents
• Next‑generation implantable devices that integrate mechanical and pharmacologic functions

Value Proposition

• Integrated structure–function: Mesh formation and drug incorporation occur in one continuous process, reducing steps and cost of goods.
• Self‑regulating pore formation via reaction–diffusion, rather than mechanical patterning or templates.
• Tunable pore morphology and drug‑release profiles through material selection and process parameter control.
• Platform‑level scalability, including potential continuous manufacturing configurations.
• Compatibility with existing medical‑grade thermoplastic elastomers, lowering material substitution and regulatory risk.

Ohio State University is seeking partners for licensing and collaborative R&D to develop drug‑eluting meshes, coatings, and related implantable products based on this manufacturing platform.