The National Eye Institute (NEI) seeks research co-development partners and/or licensees for the development of a biodegradable tissue scaffold designed for multi-tissue transplantation.

This technology includes a dual-layer biodegradable tissue scaffold designed for the transplantation of multiple tissue types, such as retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors. The current challenge in tissue transplantation is the lack of mechanical strength in existing scaffolds, which often leads to separation during handling and implantation. This innovative scaffold addresses these issues by utilizing a unique structure made from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) that combines a lower support layer with a secondary matrix of lactide-rich loops, enhancing stability and facilitating cell adhesion and polarization.

The technical solution involves a temperature-fused design that creates a robust scaffold with minimal capillary forces, allowing for better integration of the two tissue layers. This is particularly important for complex eye surgeries where multiple tissues are affected. By providing a supportive environment for weakly adherent cells, this scaffold can significantly improve the outcomes of retinal and choroidal transplants, making it a valuable tool for restoring vision in patients with advanced eye diseases.

The licensing opportunity for this technology is open for collaboration with industry partners interested in advancing tissue engineering and transplantation techniques. The inventor seeks partnerships that can help bring this innovative scaffold to market, focusing on its application in regenerative medicine and ophthalmology.