University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel infusion solution combining acetic acid with a radiographic contrast agent for the treatment of pancreatic disorders. This innovative approach effectively ablates the exocrine pancreas while preserving the islets, offering a potential treatment for chronic pancreatitis and diabetes. The addition of the radiographic contrast agent ensures complete perfusion of the pancreas, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of the treatment.
Description
The new infusion solution combines acetic acid with a radiographic contrast agent to target the exocrine pancreas. Acetic acid has been shown to ablate the exocrine pancreas effectively, while the radiographic contrast agent ensures that the entire pancreas is perfused during the infusion process. This combination allows for precise targeting and treatment, preserving the islets and potentially benefiting patients with chronic pancreatitis and diabetes.
Applications
• Treatment of chronic pancreatitis
• Diabetes management
• Pancreatic surgery
• Radiographic imaging and treatment
Advantages
This infusion solution offers several advantages, including the ability to ablate the exocrine pancreas while preserving the islets, which is crucial for maintaining insulin production. The addition of the radiographic contrast agent ensures complete and precise perfusion of the pancreas, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. This approach represents a significant advancement over existing technologies, which do not combine radiographic contrast agents with biological reagents.
Invention Readiness
The technology is currently supported by in vivo data demonstrating its effectiveness. Initial in vivo studies have shown that the acetic acid solution can effectively ablate the exocrine pancreas while preserving the islets. These studies involved infusing the solution into the pancreas of animal models and assessing the preservation of islet function and the ablation of exocrine tissue. The addition of the radiographic contrast agent has been validated to ensure complete perfusion of the pancreas during the infusion process, with imaging studies confirming precise visualization of the infusion.
IP Status
Patent Pending
