Multifunctional bioresorbable optical fiber for diagnosis and therapy.

The solution involves a multifunctional device based on a bioresorbable optical fiber. The microstructured optical fiber is made of inorganic glass and is capable of being absorbed by the human body. This device combines multiple functionalities, such as the efficient transmission of light signals to and from within a living organism and the release of chemical substances, including drugs or markers. Thanks to these features, it can simultaneously perform diagnostic and therapeutic functions, serving as a flexible platform where various light-based diagnostic protocols and therapeutic treatments can be implemented.
The solution allows the use of optical fibers inside the human body for a predetermined period, as the fiber is absorbed by the biological environment within that timeframe without disturbing its equilibrium. In the event of accidental breakage, the released material would be reabsorbed by the human body in a short time, avoiding risks associated with conventional optical fibers made of glass that is insoluble in biological fluids. The optical fiber’s geometric configuration includes a microstructured section that integrates both optical functionality and the capability to release chemical substances.

Link to KnowledgeShare.

Patent owners.

  • Fondazione LINKS, Politecnico di Torino

Priority number.

  • 102018000021559

Priority date.

  • 31/12/2018

Inventors.

  • Daniel Milanese, Nadia Giovanna Boetti, Diego Pugliese, Edoardo Ceci Ginistrelli, Davide Luca Janner

Possible applications.

  • Cancer therapies
  • In-vivo release of drugs

  • Personalized medicine

  • Photodynamic therapy

Value proposition.

  • Ability to release drugs and transmit light to deep regions of the body simultaneously
  • Real-time monitoring of the treatment
  • Bioresorbable optical fiber