Researchers Develop Wireless Microchips To Control Release Of Drugs In Body

Researchers at MicroCHIPS, Inc., have demonstrated for the first time that it is possible, using an implanted, microchip device and wireless technology, to actively control the release of drugs in the body over a prolonged period of time."This research is an important step toward development of novel drug delivery systems in which small devices filled with potent, therapeutic drugs are used to release medicines into the body as needed," said John Santini, PhD, president of MicroCHIPS.

The technology, described in the March 12 online edition of Nature Biotechnology, is unique in its use of wireless signaling, its system of reservoirs allowing precise, efficient delivery of solids, liquids or gels, and its small size. It is not expected to replace all pills or other forms of drug delivery. Rather, it will deliver proteins, small molecules and other drugs that are highly potent, have limited stability, and must be delivered in precise doses at specific times

Santini, along with Massachusetts Institute of Technology Professors Robert Langer, ScD and Michael J. Cima, PhD, began work on the concept of so-called "intelligent drug delivery devices" more than a decade ago.Langer, Institute Professor at MIT, called the current publication a "landmark" study. "One could envision that, some day, many of a patient's drugs could be placed on a chip programmed to release needed doses at precisely the right times," he said.