Endothelial-integrated stent for Schlemm's canal
OwnerMichael Reynardinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A bioengineered endothelial stent designed for implantation in Schlemm's canal enhances aqueous humor outflow and restores physiological intraocular pressure regulation. Unlike conventional devices, this stent integrates transplanted Schlemm's canal endothelial cells (SCECs) to restore mechanosensitive outflow regulation. The stent features a biocompatible or biodegradable scaffold with an endothelial cell-seeding system to support integration into the Schlemm's canal inner wall. This regenerative approach maintains physiological resistance and prevents excessive drainage, offering a stable, cell-based alternative to conventional glaucoma stents.
Claims30
An apparatus comprising:
- a bioengineered stent configured for insertion in Schlemm's canal;
- a biocompatible polymer scaffold, coated with collagen, affixed to the bioengineered stent;
- endothelial cells adhered to the biocompatible polymer scaffold;
- and
- a cell-seeding system promoting endothelial cell adhesion and functional integration on an exterior surface of the bioengineered stent.
A bioengineered endothelial-seeded stent for Schlemm's canal, comprising:
- a biocompatible polymer scaffold coated with collagen;
- a stent-seeding system promoting endothelial adhesion and functional integration;
- and
- micropores configured for pressure-responsive aqueous humor drainage.
An endothelial-seeded stent for implantation in Schlemm's canal, comprising:
- a biocompatible polymer scaffold coated with collagen configured to support endothelial cell adhesion and function,
- a plurality of micropores configured to facilitate controlled aqueous humor outflow,
- wherein the endothelial-seeded stent is seeded with endothelial cells selected from a group consisting of:
- Schlemm's canal endothelial cells (SCECs),
- endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) capable of differentiating into Schlemm's canal-like endothelial cells, or
- a combination thereof,
- wherein the endothelial cells are conditioned to enhance integration and function within Schlemm's canal.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.