Q Chip launches polymer-based PolyQules at BIO for microencapsulation of new therapeutics

Q Chip is launching its proprietary PolyQule technology platform at BIO 2006. Based on a unique understanding of polymer materials science and microfluidics, this involves encapsulating candidate drug molecules in special polymers to form PolyQules – stable and easily deliverable microparticles.

In addition, these particles can also be surface coated to endow additional functional characteristics such as immunoisolation and localisation. PolyQules are thus being hailed by many experts as having the potential to solve a wide spectrum of current drug delivery needs - from small molecules and combination products to protein, cell-therapies and vaccines.

Depending on the application, Q Chip currently offers two types of PolyQules:

• PolyQule-IonX – for small molecules and combination products
• PolyQule-BiologiX – for protein, cell-based therapies and vaccines

PolyQule-IonX is Q Chip’s lead solution for effective delivery of the small molecules that increasingly form the basis of new oncology and CNS therapeutics. Based on a proprietary “ion exchange” polymer, PolyQule-IonX™ microparticles enable more precise dosage therapies to be delivered in depot or oral formulations. They are also ideal for controlled and repeatable delivery of multiple therapeutic actives where ratio control is essential for efficacy. On the other hand, PolyQule-BiologiX™ is a flexible alginate-based delivery system designed for the emerging protein, cell based therapy and skincare markets. Using a bioinert matrix, PolyQule-BiologiX™ is designed to address protein delivery and sustained release issues as well as ensuring stabilisation and maintaining cell-based therapy viability.

“Depending on the application, we follow a Rational PolyQule Design™ process to optimise a PolyQule™-based delivery system to a particular therapy, application and administration route,” explained Q Chip’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr Jo Daniels. “We can precisely load either PolyQule-IonX™ or PolyQule-BiologiX™ microparticles with almost any therapeutic material - active compounds, biologics and cell therapies. By also being able to ensure production with less than 2% variation in microcapsule size, dosing and delivery is reliably consistent. Finally, with our proprietary GMP-compliant MicroPlants™, rapid scale-up to commercial volumes is ensured”.

Q Chip is currently forging co-developments with partners who require delivery strategies for product life-cycle extension or new product development. “On-going programmes include CNS and cancer” said Dr Daniels, “and we also see major opportunities in cosmetic dermatology along with OTC consumer healthcare and vaccines. We are looking forward to capitalise on growing US and international interest at BIO.”