Immune system response is a critical parameter in inflammatory diseases, autoimmunity, cancer, and other pathological conditions. Researchers at University of Michigan and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute used PLGA (cat# AP125 and AP073) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to create antigen-conjugated scaffolds for T-cell analysis. This research holds promise to provide for diagnostic applications regarding the immune state in various pathological states. Read more: Wheeler, Sydney N., Mary E. Dickenson, Connor N. Joyce, Samantha N. Lukpat, Leon JMW Wagner, Andrés R. Muñoz-Rojas, and Aaron H. Morris. "Antigen-conjugated scaffolds enable sustained delivery of antigen and enrichment of antigen-specific T-cells." Journal of Controlled Release (2025): 114564. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168365925011782

“Conjugation of peptide to polymer enables precise loading of biomaterial scaffolds. Ag-conjugated scaffolds exhibit sustained release of biologically active antigen. Ag delivery enriches specific CD4 T-cell clones at defined locations in vivo. Platform can deliver various antigens, including autoantigens. Approach has potential utility to monitor rare Ag-specific cells without expansion. Abstract: A thorough understanding of T-cell dynamics and interactions could improve patient care in autoimmunity, cancer immunotherapy, and myriad other conditions, yet monitoring antigen-specific T-cell clones is challenging. T-cells recognize antigens presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in the context of major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs). Specific T-cell clones are rare in the blood (<1 in 100,000), and thus cell expansion which consequently alters cell phenotype and function is typically necessary before analysis. This motivates the development of new methods for enriching T-cell populations of interest without phenotypically altering them. Recent work has demonstrated that implantable biomaterial systems can recruit disease-relevant cells in autoimmune conditions, and that if antigens are present, antigen-specific T-cells become enriched in these materials. To date, antigen-loaded materials have exhibited uncontrolled loading, burst release, and subsequent T-cell exhaustion. In this report, we engineer a novel biomaterial antigen delivery system by conjugating antigens to the polymer backbone prior to porous scaffold fabrication. We demonstrate that this technique enables precise antigen loading via ratiometric mixing of modified and unmodified polymer. We show controlled release of antigen into the microenvironment and demonstrate that released antigen is processed and presented by APCs. Using this fabrication method, we achieve sustained release of peptide antigens over a period of 3 weeks in vitro. When implanted in healthy mice, these antigen-conjugated scaffolds are invaded by host myeloid and lymphoid cells and exhibit a dose-dependent enrichment of systemically circulating antigen-specific T-cell populations, while avoiding significant T-cell exhaustion. Finally, we apply this system to an autoantigen from multiple sclerosis (MS) and show release and interaction with autoantigen-specific T-cells. Using this technique, disease-relevant T-cells can be recruited for diagnostic assessment or for immunological research. Future work will investigate the potential of these systems to monitor disease onset and progression in vivo, co-deliver multiple antigens for assessment of epitope spreading, therapeutically target disease-relevant cells within a local niche in situ, and expand the platform for controlled delivery of therapeutic peptides in models beyond autoimmunity.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP125#h , https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP073#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

One method to treat cancer is to induce apoptosis, programmed cellular death, of the cancer cells. Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast and Juntendo University School of Medicine used PLGA-PEG-NHS (Cat# AI064) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to create targeted nanoparticles for treatment of cancer. This research holds promise to provide for improved cancer therapies in the future. Read more: Boland, Anna J., Michelle K. Greene, Úna M. Herron, Michael C. Johnston, Peter Smyth, Hideo Yagita, Daniel B. Longley, and Christopher J. Scott. "Antitumor Activity of Death Receptor 5-Targeted Camptothecin-Loaded Nanoparticles in Murine Syngeneic Models." Biomacromolecules (2025). https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.biomac.5c01884

“Death receptor 5 (DR5) is a key mediator of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway that is often upregulated in tumors, rendering it an attractive target for cancer therapy. Activation of DR5 requires oligomerization, which can be achieved through multivalent presentation of DR5 ligands on nanoparticles. DR5-targeted nanoparticles can efficiently agonize DR5 to inhibit the growth of human xenografts, although it remains unclear whether these effects would translate to a syngeneic tumor model with an immunocompetent microenvironment. Here, we develop camptothecin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles coated with the murine DR5 antibody MD5–1 and demonstrate their pro-apoptotic effects in murine cell lines in vitro. Moreover, we show that these nanoparticles inhibit the growth of MC38 colorectal allografts in vivo by >90% relative to control nanoparticles. Collectively, our work confirms that the antitumor efficacy of DR5-targeted nanoparticles extends to syngeneic models, paving the way for future studies to explore their impact on tumor immunity and the surrounding microenvironment.”

PLGA-PEG-NHS (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AI064#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Eliciting an immune response suitable enough for a vaccine to be effective typically requires the use of adjuvants. These compounds are not the antibody target, directly, but act to increase the action of the immune system against the antibody targets they are packaged with. Researchers at University of Texas Austin, Indiana University School of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and Virgina Polytechnic Institute, used mPEG-PLGA (Cat# AK010) available from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to create TLR7 loaded nanoparticles to work as adjuvants increasing vaccine efficacy. This research holds promise to develop potent vaccines against a wide array of viral diseases. Read more: Huang, Sijin, Kanella M. Cohen, Liqiang Chen, Xiaowo Kang, Chang Liu, Megan E. Demouth, Wenxia Jiang et al. "Nanoparticle Adjuvant Design Enhances Germinal Center Responses Targeting Conserved Subdominant Epitopes for Pan‐Coronavirus Vaccine Development." Advanced Science (2025): e12100. https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/advs.202512100

“Current SARS-CoV-2 vaccines primarily elicit antibodies targeting the variable receptor-binding domain in the S1 subunit of the spike protein, resulting in limited cross-reactivity and short-lived immunity against emerging variants. The conserved S2 subunit presents a promising vaccine target for broad and durable protection, but the immunodominance in vaccine-induced germinal center (GC) responses hinders effective antibody generation against S2. Here, a polymeric toll-like receptor 7 agonist nanoparticle (TLR7-NP) adjuvant is reported, well designed to enhance lymph node targeting and more efficiently activate S2-specific B cells. When combined with Alum-adsorbed SARS-CoV-2 HexaPro spike protein, TLR7-NP promotes early GC recruitment of S2-specific B cells and overcomes the immunodominance, leading to early and robust S2-specific antibody responses. Compared to conventional TLR7-Alum adjuvanted subunit vaccine and clinically used SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine, TLR7-NP adjuvant induces stronger humoral immune responses across sarbecoviruses and betacoronaviruses and promotes long-lived plasma cell and memory B cell formation. These findings present a direct B cell-activating adjuvant approach for effective pan-coronavirus vaccine development.”

mPEG-PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK010#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Silencing RNA (siRNA) is a powerful tool which can inhibit the expression of select genes by binding to the respective counter-coded messenger RNA and preventing its transcription. It is, however, limited by its susceptibility to degradation by endogenous enzymes requiring a delivery system to transport it to the cell. Researchers at University of Napoli, University of Campania, University of Milano (Italy) used Purasorb (R) PLGA (Cat# CB001) available from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) as a distributed product from Corbion to develop a microfluidic system for delivery of siRNA. This research holds promise to provide for improved therapies in the future. Read more: Villano, Ersilia, Teresa Silvestri, Susy Brusco, Erika Esposito, Chiara Infolfi, Thomas L. Moore, Emma Mitidieri et al. "Emulsion-Solvent diffusion in a double-chip microfluidic platform for scalable production of Lipid@ PLGA nanoparticles delivering siRNA therapeutics." International Journal of Pharmaceutics (2025): 126440. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517325012773

“Abstract: Scalable nanoparticle manufacturing remains a key bottleneck in the clinical translation of RNA-based nanomedicines. In this study, we demonstrate the successful adaptation of a conventional emulsion–solvent diffusion protocol into an automated microfluidic workflow, illustrating its potential for streamlined and scalable nanoparticle production. Using the Sunshine™ microfluidic platform (Unchained Labs), we systematically optimized formulation and process parameters to produce siRNA-loaded hybrid lipid–polymer nanoparticles, featuring a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) core and a dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine shell (mDPPC@PLGA hNPs). Optimised mDPPC@PLGA hNPs exhibited key technological features, matching or exceeding the quality of their benchtop equivalents (bDPPC@PLGA hNPs). Using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) as a stabilizer, monodisperse mDPPC@PLGA hNPs with controlled size (<170 nm) and consistent zeta potential (–30 mV) were achieved with production yields ≥ 40 %. The ability of mDPPC@PLGA hNPs to effectively entrap and slowly release a siRNA targeting nuclear factor NF-κB (siNFκB) was successfully demonstrated. Structural characterization through thermodynamic and SAXS analyses confirmed that the microfluidic produced hNPs retained comparable internal architecture to their benchtop counterparts. Most notably, siNFκB-loaded mDPPC@PLGA hNPs resulted in effective in vitro downregulation of NFκB in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated A549 lung epithelial cells. Collectively, these results establish a novel and robust approach for the scalable fabrication of functional, siRNA-loaded hybrid nanoparticles via emulsion–solvent diffusion, leveraging a commercially available, automated microfluidic system with a serial chip configuration. Schematic representation of the adaptation of the bench-top emulsion–solvent diffusion protocol to a microfluidic automated nanoparticle synthesis system with a double-chip in series configuration for the preparation of siRNA-loaded lipid@PLGA hNPs.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=CB001#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Blood clots can form in vessels leading to thromboembolism which is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Researchers at Yonsei University, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, and Korea University used PLGA (Cat# AP082) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop disc-shaped particles loaded with Fucoidan drug to prevent clotting. This research holds promise to provide for treatment of blood-clotting related diseases. Read more: Choi, Wonseok, Hyeyoun Cho, Hwijin Jang, Hyewon Park, Inchan Youn, Sungmin Han, and Jaehong Key. "A Dual-Targeted Therapy with Fucoidan-Functionalized Thrombolytic Discoidal Microparticles for Pulmonary Thromboembolism." Drug Design, Development and Therapy (2025): 10281-10297. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2147/DDDT.S527596

“Pulmonary thromboembolism, a pathological condition characterized by the occlusion of pulmonary vasculature by free-circulating thrombus, constitutes the third leading cause of cardiovascular-related mortality. Among conventional therapeutic approaches to manage the disease, systemic intravenous thrombolysis is hindered by inherent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic limitations, including a short biological half-life, high requisite dosages, and an increased risk of hemorrhagic transformation. Given the critical need for prompt pulmonary reperfusion, this study introduces a dual-targeted therapeutic strategy employing fucoidan-functionalized, thrombolytic discoidal polymeric microparticles. This dual-targeted approach leverages the physicochemical properties of disc-shaped particles, which exhibit shape-dependent accumulation in the lungs, together with the biological binding affinity provided by the marine-derived component, fucoidan. A top-down lithographic fabrication technique was employed to synthesize discoidal microparticle systems for physicochemical targeting to the pulmonary vasculature, providing precise control over the system’s geometry and uniform drug encapsulation efficiency. Furthermore, a PLGA polymeric matrix was positively modified to incorporate fucoidan onto its matrix surface, which is a sulfated polysaccharide with high-affinity interactions for P-selectin expressed on activated platelets in the nanomolar range. In vitro and in vivo thrombolysis assays were conducted to assess the therapeutic efficacy of microparticles. The proposed discoidal systems coupled with the fucoidan showed rapid accumulation due to their shape and selective interaction with activated platelets. Approximately 50% of the injected microparticles exhibited preferential accumulation within 15 minutes post-injection, and a significant portion remained over assay times. The fucoidan functionalization enhanced the targeting potential, yielding a 4.65- and 1.48-fold increase under static and dynamic flow assays, respectively (all p<0.01). Although dramatic dissolution was not achieved using the proposed system in comparison with rtPA, alongside in vitro and in vivo investigations, the systems exhibited a more prolonged and dose-dependent lytic potential. The proposed systems may offer an alternative to conventional systemic thrombolysis coupled with adjunctive pharmacological interventions.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP082#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Nanoparticles have the potential to carry many different types of drugs for the treatment of a wide variety of diseases however their behavior and localization after transport is not fully understood. Researchers at University of Pennsylvania and University of Deleware, used PLGA-CY5 (Cat# AV034) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop a fluorescently labelled nanoparticle system for tracking transport of the particles in relation to cells and the body. This research holds promise to improve the use of nanoparticle drug delivery systems in the future. Read more: Sterin, Eric H., George C. Kramarenko, Chitran Roy Chowdhury, Sriram Pramod Tendulkar, Kejian Li, Timothy Chaya, Jenna Muscat-Rivera, Jilian R. Melamed, and Emily S. Day. "Exogenous CD55 Expression on Membrane-Wrapped Nanoparticles Unexpectedly Increases Spleen Tropism and Immune Cell Uptake In Vivo." ACS Nano Medicine (2025). https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsnanomed.5c00059

“Intravenously delivered nanoparticle (NP) therapies have the potential to cure a variety of diseases; however, their clinical use has been stunted by undesirable levels of immune cell clearance. This clearance is attributed to protein adsorption onto the outside of the NPs, leading to recognition by immune cells and subsequent accumulation in the liver and spleen. Membrane-wrapped nanoparticles (MWNPs) offer a potential solution to reducing immune clearance by incorporating immune evasion/marker-of-self-proteins, although they too exhibit protein corona-mediated clearance. While various opsonin proteins can bind to MWNPs, complement proteins are particularly problematic as they play a crucial role in innate immunity, triggering immune cell recognition and clearance and causing inflammation. We hypothesized that introducing a complement regulatory protein into the membranes of MWNPs could minimize complement-mediated clearance, but the opposite effect was observed experimentally. In this study, before membrane collection, source cells were genetically modified to express the complement regulatory protein, CD55, which inhibits C3 convertases, key enzymes in the complement cascade. We confirmed that the active protein was transferred onto MWNPs and determined that CD55-modified MWNPs incubated in mouse serum significantly reduced C3 convertase concentration by 33% compared to unmodified MWNPs. Unexpectedly, in vivo analysis of biodistribution and immune cell uptake showed that CD55-modified MWNPs exhibited 2.1× higher spleen accumulation and elevated immune cell uptake in blood and spleen, specifically in monocyte/macrophage populations, as compared to unmodified MWNPs. This may be due to nonprotein corona-mediated mechanisms, such as the secondary role of CD55 as a ligand for CD97 (expressed in monocytes, macrophages, and other immune cells). Supporting this theory, studies examining ex vivo MWNP binding to spleen cells pretreated with IgG or CD97 antibodies showed that CD55-modified MWNPs had 18% lower binding after CD97 blockade, whereas unmodified MWNP binding was not reduced by CD97 blockade. These findings highlight the importance of considering both serum protein interactions and ligand/receptor interactions when designing genetically engineered MWNPs that overexpress a protein of interest, as well as the importance of testing modified MWNPs in both ex vivo and in vivo settings. In the future, the CD55 modification described here could be utilized to promote spleen tropism of MWNPs when desired. More broadly, this work demonstrates the ability to tune MWNP cellular interactions and biodistribution through genetic engineering of source cells─a technique that can be adapted for a plethora of uses in precision medicine.”

PLGA-CY5 ( https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AV034#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Press Release

Akina PolySciTech and Corbion Biomaterials Expand Distribution Agreement to Broaden Access to PURASORB® Resorbable Polymers

West Lafayette, IN, USA, and Gorinchem, The Netherlands — 11/18/2025 –

Akina Inc., through its PolySciTech division, and Corbion Biomaterials today announced an expansion of their distribution agreement to cover Corbion’s complete off-the-shelf PURASORB® portfolio. This agreement reflects both companies’ commitment to advancing innovation in drug delivery and other medical applications.

The PURASORB® portfolio comprises resorbable polymers based on lactide, glycolide, and caprolactone, manufactured under GMP conditions. With decades of proven clinical performance, PURASORB® polymers are trusted worldwide by leading biopharmaceutical companies, generic medicine producers, and medical device manufacturers for their safety, quality, and consistency in drug delivery systems and medical devices. PURASORB® polymers support a broad range of long‑acting medicines and next‑generation medical devices.

By enabling researchers to initiate projects with GMP-equivalent polymers, the partnership ensures continuity from discovery through scale-up, reducing development risks and safeguarding product performance during critical transitions.

Through PolySciTech’s e-commerce platform, academic and industry scientists can order PURASORB® polymers in the quantities they need, with flexible purchasing options including credit card payment. This approach shortens delivery times and simplifies procurement, allowing researchers to focus on advancing their science rather than managing sourcing hurdles.

Researchers utilizing innovative research-grade polymers developed by PolySciTech also benefit from the partnership, with Corbion’s proven process for scaling up to GMP production bridging the gap to clinical use.

“This agreement expands the current Purasorb product offering currently carried by Akina, Inc. to include the entire standard catalog. For researchers, this means easy access to development grade materials currently produced in large-scale GMP format offered with the additional support of Akina, Inc’s comprehensive physicochemical characterization data. With little more than three clicks and a credit card, researchers can obtain gram-scale quantities of Purasorb polymers within as little as 1 business day. This will enable translational research to generate and test drug-delivery or biomedical device prototypes utilizing the exact same materials as available for the finished clinic-ready products” said John Garner, (Akina, Inc. General Manager).

“Corbion is committed to supporting our partners’ success with GMP-grade resorbable polymers produced to the highest standards of quality and consistency,” said Julien Bérard, Global Head of Business Biomaterials at Corbion. “Extending our collaboration with PolySciTech ensures that innovators worldwide can access PURASORB® polymers at the earliest stages of development, laying the foundation for faster, more predictable advancement into clinical application.”

About PolySciTech (Akina, Inc.) PolySciTech, a division of Akina, Inc., is a leading global provider of research-grade biodegradable polymers, reagents, and related services for biomedical research. Headquartered in West Lafayette, Indiana, PolySciTech supports academic institutions and industry innovators in advancing drug delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. For more information, visit www.akinainc.com.

About Corbion Biomaterials Corbion Biomaterials is a global leader in resorbable polymers for medical and pharmaceutical applications. With decades of expertise in lactic acid and lactide chemistry, Corbion Biomaterials develops and manufactures its PURASORB® polymers under GMP conditions, providing trusted solutions for a wide range of partners worldwide advancing long acting drug delivery systems and medical devices. For more information, visit www.corbion.com.

Akina Media Contact: John Garner, General Manager, Akina: PolySciTech, jg@akinainc.com 765-464-0501

Corbion Media Contact: Lucas Wiarda, Marketing Director, lucas.wiarda@corbion.com ,+31 (0) 610334360

Myocardial infarction (MI) remains one of the most pressing global health problems, leaving millions of patients with long-term cardiac dysfunction despite advances in acute surgical care. Researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology used multiple PLGAs from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop a drug delivery system to release drugs into the heart tissue in a timed sequence. This research holds promise to improve treatment of heart disease. Read more: Erika Yan Wang, Elizabeth A. Calle, Binbin Ying, Behnaz Eshaghi, Linzixuan Zhang, Xin Yang, Stacey Qiaohui Lin, Jooli Han, Alanna G. Backx, Yuting Huang, Sevinj Mursalova, Chuhan Joyce Qi, Yi Liu, Robert Langer, Ana Jaklenec "TIMED: Temporal intervention with microparticle encapsulation and delivery—A programmed release system for post-myocardial infarction therapy." Cell Biomaterials (2025). https://www.cell.com/cell-biomaterials/abstract/S3050-5623(25)00240-5

“Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major global health challenge. Surgical interventions address the acute phase but often fail to support long-term recovery. Sequential post-operative drug delivery offers promise but is constrained by release methods. Here, we developed TIMED (temporal intervention with microparticle encapsulation and delivery), a polymeric device enabling programmed sequential release through spatially patterned microparticles in a tough hydrogel matrix. TIMED demonstrated excellent mechanical performance and biocompatibility for long-term implantation and retained strong stability after storage. A sequential dosing regimen aligned with the innate post-MI response was first validated in hiPSC-derived cardiac tissues, where it enhanced cell viability and vascularization while reducing collagen deposition. In vivo, delivery via the TIMED improved survival, reduced injury markers and infarct size, and enhanced cardiac output, outperforming equivalent i.v. dosing. This work establishes a first-of-its-kind cardiac implantable polymeric platform with modular sequential release and provides a framework for programmed multi-dosing across diverse applications.”

Multiple PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/polyesters.php)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

When nanoparticle drug delivery system enters the body it gathers a cluster of proteins which naturally cluster around its surface forming a protein corona. Researchers at University of Napoli Federico II used mPEG-PLGA (Cat# AK090) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to investigate the interactions between proteins and nanoparticles. This research helps elucidate the behavior of nanoparticle delivery systems. Read more: Spinelli, Lucio, Pasquale D’Anna, Elva Morretta, Chiara Cassiano, Virgilio Piccolo, Martina De Rosa, Rebecca Amico et al. "PEGylation-Driven Remodeling of the Protein Corona on PLGA Nanoparticles: Implications for Macrophage Recognition." Biomacromolecules (2025). https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.biomac.5c01369

“The formation of a Protein Corona (PC) on the surface of nanoparticles (NPs) is a critical event that shapes their biological identity and governs interactions with the immune system. In this study, we investigated the composition of the PC formed on mixtures of PLGA and PEG–PLGA NPs, aiming to elucidate the link between NPsurface chemistry, proteomic fingerprint in cell culture medium, and uptake by bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). NPs showed different sizes but comparable actual PEG amount exposed on the surface, which is significantly lower than the theoretical values. The PC, isolated using a standardized microfiltration protocol, revealed distinct patterns of protein adsorption as a function of the PEG density. Uptake studies in BMDMs revealed a strong inverse relationship between PEG surface density, PC composition, and macrophage internalization, supporting the hypothesis that the opsonin/dysopsonin balance is more critical than a single protein interaction. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that the PEG surface density is not the only determinant of PC composition. These findings underscore the importance of rigorous surface characterization and PC profiling to predict and tune nanocarrier performance in vivo.”

PLGA-PEG (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK090#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

In order for a swallowed tablet or pill to work, the relevant medicine must cross the intestinal lumen into the bloodstream. Researchers at Universidade do Porto (University of Portugal), Harvard Medical School, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology used Fluorescent PLGA-FKR648 (cat# AV015) as part of a novel, urease-powered motile nanoparticle for oral dosage. This research holds promise to provide for delivery of poorly-absorbed drugs. Read more: Almeida, Helena, Cecília Cristelo, Juliana Viegas, Giovanni Traverso, Bruno Sarmento, and José das Neves. "Gastrointestinal distribution of engineered biodegradable urease-powered nanomotors." Acta Biomaterialia (2025). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1742706125007287

“Abstract: The oral route is the most patient-friendly option for drug administration, yet biological barriers often limit its effectiveness. Chief among these is the mucus layer along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which restricts the transport of drugs and carriers. Strategies such as mucolytics, mucus-inert materials, and anisotropic nanosystems have been employed to enhance penetration. We developed urease-powered poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanomotors for drug delivery, featuring either random (isotropic) or spatially localized (anisotropic, Janus-like) urease surface functionalization. Anisotropic nanomotors were prepared by immobilizing PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) at the oil-water interface of Pickering emulsions, followed by urease conjugation via carbodiimide chemistry. Cryogenic scanning electron microscopy confirmed NPs interfacial localization, and immunoelectron microscopy unveiled urease spatial distribution. The resulting nanomotors catalyzed the conversion of urea to ammonia and carbon dioxide, enabling enhanced diffusion in urea-containing environments. Isotropic NPs showed a two-fold higher enzymatic conversion rate compared to anisotropic ones, attributed to higher enzyme availability, with negligible levels observed for passive PLGA NPs. All NPs were coated with poloxamer 407 (P407) for stabilization, yielding particles under 200 nm with low polydispersity and near-neutral charge. The P407 coating slightly reduced nanomotor mobility in fluids at the single-particle level, while it seems to have improved in vitro cell uptake in the presence of urea. In vivo studies in rats revealed that urease-functionalized nanomotors transited the GI tract and appeared to show enhanced localization at the epithelial surface, when compared to passive counterparts and regardless of urease distribution configuration. These findings highlight the potential of both isotropic and anisotropic urease-powered PLGA nanomotors to overcome GI barriers and serve as drug delivery platforms. New designs for urease-powered polymeric nanoparticles (nanomotors) are proposed in this work to circumvent hurdles introduced by mucosae. Nanomotors featured either random or spatially oriented distribution of urease at their surface. The latter was achieved by means of Pickering emulsion and partial surface modification. Using these approaches, we demonstrated that both nanomotors convert urea into carbon dioxide and ammonia, resulting in enhanced diffusion in aqueous media. Nanomotors were safe in vitro, and capable of providing extensive distribution throughout the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration to rats, accumulating in the vicinity of the epithelium. The main findings suggest that such bioresorbable nanosystems have the potential to tackle important biological barriers and presumably be used as oral drug delivery vehicles.”

PLGA-FKR648 (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AV015#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Immunotherapy is a promising field where the bodies own defense system is used to fight cancer. Researchers at The University of Oklahoma used PLGA-Rhodamine B (Cat# AV011) from Akina from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop a novel immunotherapy platform. This research holds promise to improve treatment against cancer. Read more: Ajeeb, Rana, Chloé Catelain, Harsh A. Joshi, Danuta Radyna, and John R. Clegg. "Recombinant Cytokine Bioconjugates with Degradable Nanogel Substrates for Macrophage Immunotherapy." Acta Biomaterialia (2025). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1742706125004015

“Cytokines are potent endogenous modulators of innate immunity, making them key mediators of macrophage plasticity for immunotherapy. However, the clinical translation of recombinant cytokines as therapeutics is limited by systemic side effects, caused by cytokines’ pleiotropy, potency, and non-specific biodistribution following systemic dosing. We developed a cytokine delivery platform utilizing poly(acrylamide-co-methacrylic acid) synthetic nanogels as a biodegradable substrate for conjugated recombinant cytokines (i.e., IFNγ, IL4, or IL10), called Synthetic Nano-CytoKines or “SyNK”. We evaluated the phenotypic response of macrophages to these conjugates following prophylactic or therapeutic dosing, in the presence or absence of soluble inflammatory signals. Our data confirmed that SyNK is highly cytocompatible with murine macrophages, preserves the activity of conjugated recombinant cytokines to both macrophages and dendritic cells, and minimizes systemic exposure to freely soluble recombinant cytokines. Intrinsic activity of the nanomaterial was modest, acting in combination with the conjugated cytokine, and resulted in unique phenotypes with IL4-SyNK and IL10-SyNK stimulation that could potentially be leveraged for therapeutic applications. We further demonstrated that RAW264.7 macrophages adopt distinct alternative phenotypes upon IL4 or IL10 stimulation in different classically polarizing microenvironments, as measured by spectral flow cytometry and secretome multiplex, which are similar for soluble recombinant cytokine and the corresponding SyNK. These findings offer a potential mechanism through which IL4 or IL10-SyNK can redirect the classically activated macrophage antigen presentation, T cell co-stimulation, or microenvironment regulatory functions for therapeutic purposes. Cytokines have been extensively investigated as immune therapies, but their clinical translation is limited by their systemic toxicity and frequent dosing regimens. Existing approaches have improved cytokine stability and local delivery but still face challenges in systemic administration and controlling immune response. We developed a cytokine delivery platform using biodegradable poly(acrylamide-co-methacrylic acid) nanogels to conjugate cytokines (e.g. IFNγ, IL4, or IL10) aimed at systemic macrophage immunotherapy. We show that our platform preserves cytokine activity and eliminates the release of free cytokine. We further explore, for the first time, how different stimuli in the macrophage environment influence their response to the cytokine bioconjugates. Our work provides thorough insights into macrophage plasticity and addresses key limitations of current strategies.”

PLGA-Rhodamine (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AV011#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Post-surgical cataracts can reduce vision in patients. Researchers at Rowan University used PLGA-PEG-PLGA (AK097) from Akina from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to deliver doxorubicin as part of cataract treatment. This research holds promise to provide for improved blindness treatment. Read more: Vardar, Camila, Giavanna Trojan, and Mark E. Byrne. "Treating Post-Cataract Posterior Capsule Opacification: The Relationship Between Myofibroblast Concentration on Lens Capsule Wrinkling." Regenerative Engineering and Translational Medicine (2025): 1-12. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40883-025-00476-z

“The present study aimed to determine the relationship between the concentration of myofibroblasts on bovine lens capsules and loss of visual acuity due to monolayer coverage and wrinkling, in a model of an accelerated timeline of posterior capsular opacification (PCO). Bovine lens capsule explants were cultured on 12-well plates and treated with five different concentrations of myofibroblasts, while optical clarity was measured using UV-spectroscopy for a period of 4 days. Immunolocalization studies were carried out to confirm loss of transparency from wrinkling caused by myofibroblastic contractile forces. Novel, injectable, thermosensitive poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid)-b-poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) triblock copolymer hydrogels were engineered for the sustained release of targeted, nucleic acid nanocarriers loaded with cytotoxic doxorubicin (G8:3DNA:Dox). Targeted depletion of myofibroblast precursors using these hydrogels was evaluated. Both 25 k and 40 k myofibroblasts/well delivered onto the lens capsule exhibited almost total loss of optical clarity, whereas 5 k and 10 k myofibroblasts/well still showed a significant decrease in transparency. Capsules that received 2 k myofibroblasts/well did not experience a significant reduction in transmittance. For the first time, the relationship between myofibroblast concentration, as a result of prolonged exposure to active transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) and pro-inflammatory conditions, and its effect on lens capsule transparency is shown. The findings of this study can be taken into consideration when designing sustained release devices to prevent the onset of post-surgical complications of cataract surgery.”

PLGA-PEG-PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK097#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

One route of treatment for brain cancer is to apply nanoparticles through the nose and to trigger them to deliver inside the brain tissue. Researchers at Nagoya City University used PLGA (AP018) from Akina from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com). This research holds promise to provide drug delivery directly to the brain. Read more: Sato, Kazuki, Koki Ogawa, Sawaki Nabeshima, Susumu Suwabe, and Tetsuya Ozeki. "Fabrication and Application of Iron Oxide-Encapsulated PLGA Nanoparticles with Dual Responsiveness to Magnetic Fields and Light for Nose-to-Brain Drug Delivery." Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology (2025): 107535. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1773224725009384

“Nose-to-brain delivery has been widely investigated as a potential strategy for glioma therapy. However, the nasal epithelial barrier remains a major obstacle to drug transport from the nasal cavity to the brain, particularly for macromolecular agents such as peptides, nucleic acids, and nanoparticles. Therefore, strategies to enhance epithelial permeability are required. In this study, we developed a drug delivery system to improve nose-to-brain transport through transcranial magnetic field application, with the aim of contributing to glioma treatment. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), which possess both superparamagnetic and photothermal properties, were utilized to enhance brain penetration and to enable photothermal therapy (PTT). IONPs were encapsulated in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles to form IONPs@PLGA, with an average size of approximately 200 nm. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that IONPs were located inside PLGA nanoparticles, and laser irradiation (660 nm) raised the temperature to 50 °C, suggesting that IONPs@PLGA generated sufficient heat to induce cancer cell death. Moreover, IONPs@PLGA were efficiently internalized by cells under a magnetic field, and laser irradiation induced strong cytotoxicity against C6 glioma cells. Notably, applying a magnetic field after intranasal administration increased brain accumulation by ∼2.5-fold, confirming enhanced delivery via magnetic targeting. In summary, we developed IONPs@PLGA, a dual magnetic- and light-responsive system, and demonstrated its potential to improve nose-to-brain delivery. Given their drug-loading capacity, IONPs@PLGA represent a promising platform for magnetically guided, non-invasive brain drug delivery.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP018#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and it develops in the lower part of the large intestine. Researchers at Pusan National University used a series of PLGAs (AP037, AP040, AP082, and AP154) from Akina from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop hyaluronic acid conjugated PLGA for colorectal cancer (CRC)-targeted nanoparticles. This research holds promise to treat this common and deadly disease. Read more: Lee, Juho, Dongmin Kwak, Hyunwoo Kim, Muneeb Ullah, Jihyun Kim, Muhammad Naeem, Seonghwan Hwang et al. "Elucidating a Tumor‐Selective Nanoparticle Delivery Mechanism at the Colorectal Lumen–Tumor Interface for Precise Local Cancer Therapy." Small 21, no. 9 (2025): 2409994. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/smll.202409994

“Although various colorectal cancer (CRC)-targeted nanoparticles have been developed to selectively deliver anticancer agents to tumor tissues, severe off-target side effects still persist due to unwanted systemic nanoparticle distribution, limiting the therapeutic outcome. Here, by elucidating a tumor-selective nanoparticle delivery mechanism occurring at the colorectal lumen–tumor interface, an alternative CRC-targeted delivery route is proposed, which enables highly tumor-selective delivery without systemic distribution, through direct drug delivery from the outside of the body (colorectal lumen) to tumors in the colorectum. Owing to the presence of accessible tumor-specific receptors such as CD44 at the colorectal lumen–tumor interface, but not at the colorectal lumen–normal tissue interface, colorectal luminal surface (CLS)-targeting ligand-functionalized nanoparticles selectively accumulate in CRC tissues without systemic distribution, resulting in successful local CRC therapy. The findings suggest that CLS-targeted lumen-to-tumor delivery can be a suitable strategy for highly CRC-specific drug delivery for precise local CRC therapy.”

PLGAs (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/polyesters.php)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Diabetes is related to chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction. Researchers at Assiut University, University of Tabuk, Taibah University, University of Cincinnati, and Badr University in Assiut used PLGA (AP104) from Akina from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop a delivery system for rivaroxaban. This research holds promise to provide for treatment of diabetes. Read more: Elbadr, Mohamed M., Heba A. Galal, Helal F. Hetta, Hassabelrasoul Elfadil, Fawaz E. Alanazi, Shereen Fawzy, Hashim M. Aljohani et al. "Immunomodulatory Effect of Rivaroxaban Nanoparticles Alone and in Combination with Sitagliptin on Diabetic Rat Model." Diseases 13, no. 3 (2025): 87. https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9721/13/3/87

“Background: Chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation are key drivers of diabetes complications. Rivaroxaban (RX) and sitagliptin (SITA) are established therapies for thromboembolism and glycemic control, respectively. This study evaluated the novel therapeutic potential of nano-rivaroxaban (NRX) alone and in combination with sitagliptin (SITA) in mitigating inflammation and restoring immune balance in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Type 2 diabetes was induced in rats using a single injection of STZ (60 mg/kg). Animals were divided into five groups: control, STZ-diabetic, RX-treated (5 mg/kg), NRX-treated (5 mg/kg), and NRX+SITA-treated (5 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg). After 4 weeks of treatment, blood glucose, coagulation markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-35, TGF-β1, IL-10) were analyzed. Histopathological examination of the liver, kidney, pancreas, and spleen was conducted. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess hepatic NF-κB expression. Results: STZ significantly elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-35, TGF-β1, IL-10), along with increased hepatic NF-κB expression and histopathological abnormalities in immune organs. NRX significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines, improved histopathological changes in organs, and decreased hepatic NF-κB expression. The combination therapy (NRX + SITA) achieved superior immune modulation, with enhanced cytokine profile restoration, reduced hepatic NF-κB expression, and near-complete histopathological normalization. Conclusions: This study underscores the promise of combining nanoparticle-based drug delivery with established therapies like sitagliptin to achieve superior immune modulation and inflammation control, presenting a potential therapeutic strategy for managing diabetes complications. Keywords: diabetes; nano-rivaroxaban; rivaroxaban; sitagliptin; streptozotocin”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP104#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease can potentially be treated by a drug known as edaravone, however this drug does not transport into the brain tissue where it is needed due to the blood-brain-barrier. Researchers at University of Porto and University of Santiago de Compostela used PEG-PLGA (AK106) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop encapsulation techniques for the brain delivery of edaravone as part of ALS treatment. Read more: Aguiar, Brandon, Ana Rita Alfenim, Cláudia Sofia Machado, Joana Moreira, Miguel Pinto, Francisco J. Otero-Espinar, Fernanda Borges, and Carlos Fernandes. "Exploring Nano-Delivery Systems to Enhance the Edaravone Performance in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Treatment." International Journal of Molecular Sciences 26, no. 5 (2025): 2146. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11900301/

“Edaravone is one of the treatment options for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, but its therapeutic efficacy is limited due to the incapacity to cross the blood–brain barrier, as well as its short life span and poor stability, which is ultimately caused by its tautomerism in physiological condions. This work presents an overview about the use of several nanoformulations based on polymeric, protein, lipidic, or hybrid structure as suitable and stable drug delivery systems for encapsulating edaravone. We also evaluated the functionalization of nanoparticles with pegylated chains using the polyethylene glycol or tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate and the possibility of preparing polymeric nanoparticles at different pH (7.4, 9, and 11). Edaravone was sucessfully encapsulated in polymeric, lipid–polymer hybrid, and lipidic nanoparticles. The use of higher pH values in the synthesis of polymeric nanoparticles has led to a decrease in nanoparticle size and an increase in the percentage of encapsulation efficiency. However, the resulting nanoformulations are not stable. Only polymeric and hybrid nanoparticles showed good stability over 80 days of storage, mainly at 4 °C. Overall, the nanoformulations tested did not show cytotoxicity in the SH-SY5Y cell line except the nanostructured lipid carrier formulations that showed some cytotoxicity possibly due to lipidic peroxidation. In conclusion, this work shows that edaravone can be encapsulated in different nanocarriers that could act as an interesting alternative for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Keywords: edaravone, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, hybrid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers”

mPEG-PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK106#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Leukocyte esterase is an enzyme with pronounced upregulation near sights of inflamed colonic tissue. Researchers at Pusan National University, Korea Univesrsity, and Daegu Catholic University used PLGA (AP037) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop dexamethasone conjugated prodrugs for oral delivery. This research holds promise to provide for treatment against a wide range of irritable bowel disease (IBD) states. Read more: Lee, Juho, Aruzhan Saparbayeva, Jihyun Kim, Dongmin Kwak, Hyunwoo Kim, Muneeb Ullah, Md Lukman Hakim et al. "Leukocyte Esterase-Activated Nanoconjugates Enables Precise Local Therapy of Ulcerative Colitis via Inflamed Tissue-Selective Drug Delivery." ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2025). https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsami.5c11808

“Leukocyte esterase (LE), markedly upregulated in inflamed colonic tissues, offers a unique enzymatic trigger for selective drug activation in ulcerative colitis (UC). To exploit this pathological hallmark, we developed LE-activated nanoconjugates that enable inflamed tissue-selective drug delivery as a strategy to achieve precise local therapy for UC. Dexamethasone (DEX) was covalently conjugated to poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) via ester bonds to form nanoconjugates (DPNCs) with suppressed drug release during gastrointestinal transit. These nanoconjugates accumulated in inflamed colonic tissues via the epithelial enhanced permeability and retention (eEPR) effect and selectively released DEX in response to elevated LE activity. In a dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis model, orally administered DPNCs achieved superior colonic drug accumulation, minimized systemic distribution, and significantly improved therapeutic outcomes compared with free DEX. These findings highlight the potential of LE-activated nanoconjugates as an effective oral platform for precise and safe treatment of UC.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP037#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Near infrared (NIR) light is a form of long-wavelength light which can harmlessly pass through human tissue and be utilized to trigger actions inside the human body. Researchers at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth used PLGA (AP016) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop microparticles for NIR-triggered vancomycin delivery. This research holds promise to provide for precisely controlled delivery of drugs. Read more: Pokharel, Mishal, Abid Neron, Amit Kumar Dey, Aishwarya Raksha Siddharthan, Menaka Konara, Md Mainuddin Sagar, Tracie Ferreira, and Kihan Park. "Light-Responsive PLGA Microparticles for On-Demand Vancomycin Release and Enhanced Antibacterial Efficiency." Pharmaceutics 17, no. 8 (2025): 1007. https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/17/8/1007

“Abstract: Background: A precise drug delivery system enables the optimization of treatments with minimal side effects if it can deliver medication only when activated by a specific light source. This study presents a controlled drug delivery system based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles (MPs) designed for the sustained release of vancomycin hydrochloride. Methods: The MPs were co-loaded with indocyanine green (ICG), a near-infrared (NIR) responsive agent, and fabricated via the double emulsion method.They were characterized for stability, surface modification, biocompatibility, and antibacterial efficacy. Results: Dynamic light scattering and zeta potential analyses confirmed significant increases in particle size and surface charge reversal following chitosan coating. Scanning electron microscopy revealed uniform morphology in uncoated MPs (1–10 μm) and irregular surfaces post-coating. Stability tests demonstrated drug retention for up to 180 days. Among formulations, PVI1 exhibited the highest yield (76.67 ± 1.3%) and encapsulation efficiency (56.2 ± 1.95%). NIR irradiation (808 nm) enhanced drug release kinetics, with formulation PVI4 achieving over 48.9% release, resulting in improved antibacterial activity. Chitosan-coated MPs (e.g., PVI4-C) effectively suppressed drug release without NIR light for up to 8 h, with cumulative release reaching only 10.89%. Without NIR light, bacterial colonies exceeded 1000 CFU; NIR-triggered release reduced them below 120 CFU. Drug release data fitted best with the zero-order and Korsmeyer–Peppas models, suggesting a combination of diffusion-controlled and constant-rate release behavior. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the promise of chitosan-coated NIR-responsive PLGA MPs for precise, on-demand antibiotic delivery and improved antibacterial performance. Keywords: near-infrared light; microparticles; antibiotic; drug delivery; controlled release; chitosan coating”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP016#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is the second leading cause of perinatal death and morbidity. Researchers at University of Washington used mPEG-PLGA (AK106) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to create a delivery system to provide protective curcumin agents into the brain tissue to restrict inflammation. This research holds promise to prevent birth defects. Read more: Xu, N., Wixey, J., Chand, K., Wong, M., & Nance, E. (2025). Nano-formulated curcumin uptake and biodistribution in the fetal growth restricted newborn piglet brain. Drug Delivery and Translational Research, 1-15. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13346-025-01830-y

“Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 5% to 10% of all pregnancies in developed countries and is the second most leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. Life-long consequences of FGR range from learning and behavioral issues to cerebral palsy. To support the newborn brain following FGR, timely and accessible neuroprotection strategies are needed. Curcumin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles, which have been widely explored for the treatment of cancer, neurological disorders, and bacterial infections, have the potential to prevent and mitigate pathogenic inflammatory processes in the FGR brain. Curcumin is a hydrophobic molecule with poor aqueous solubility and therefore has been incorporated into nanoparticles to improve solubility and delivery. However, curcumin loading in many nanoparticles can be limited to 10% by weight or lower. Here, we first optimize the formulation process of curcumin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles to find a tunable, reproducible, and stable formulation with high curcumin loading and encapsulation efficiency. We establish a curcumin formulation with 39% curcumin loading and > 95% curcumin encapsulation efficiency. Using this formulation, we assessed the biodistribution of polymeric nanoparticles in FGR piglets and normally grown (NG) piglets following different administration routes and evaluated brain cellular uptake. We show a significant amount of nanoparticle accumulation in the brain parenchyma of neonatal piglets as early as 4 h after intranasal administration. Nanoparticles colocalized in microglia, a therapeutic target of interest in FGR brain injury. This study demonstrates the potential of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles to treat neuroinflammation associated with FGR in the newborn.”

mPEG-PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK016#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease commonly affecting joints. Researchers at University of California San Diego and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center used PLGA (Cat# AP018) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to create trans retinoic acid loaded microparticles as a means to alleviate inflammation and swelling of arthritis. This research holds promise to provide improved treatment against this potentially crippling disease. Read more: Dolmat, Maksim, Julia Borges Paes Lemes, Wade T. Johnson, Elizabeth L. Wilkinson, Tony L. Yaksh, Nunzio Bottini, and Nisarg J. Shah. "Disease modifying biomaterials for modulating mechanical allodynia in a preclinical model of rheumatoid arthritis." Bioengineering & Translational Medicine (2025): e70054. https://aiche.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/btm2.70054

“Pain is a key symptom associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and can persist even in the context of overall disease control by standard-of-care disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Analgesic agents and corticosteroids are often used to supplement DMARDs for pain relief but lack disease modifying properties, and their sustained use carries adverse risks. In this work, we characterized the progression of pain sensitivity in the SKG mouse model of RA and evaluated the potential therapeutic interventions. Male and female SKG mice, after systemic mannan injection, developed a mechanical pain phenotype and joint swelling, with a strong inverse correlation between clinical arthritis scores and pain thresholds. To test potential interventions for pain alleviation, we evaluated all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microparticles (ATRA-PLGA MP) administered via intra-articular injection, which we have previously demonstrated to be disease-modifying. The pain and inflammation patterns assessed by the von Frey test and clinical scoring showed ATRA-PLGA MP monotherapy reduced inflammation and alleviated mechanical allodynia in arthritic SKG mice, an effect that was amplified by combination treatments with standard-of-care agents. In early-stage arthritis, co-administration with cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein (CTLA)-4-Ig, clinically known as abatacept, delayed disease progression and sustained the reduction of mechanical allodynia. In established arthritis, sequential treatment with the corticosteroid dexamethasone (Dex) reduced cumulative disease burden and reduced mechanical allodynia. These findings highlight the potential of combining ATRA-PLGA MP with standard-of-care treatments as a potential strategy to enhance the efficacy and durability of disease modification and pain alleviation for arthritis management.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP018#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 4/29/26: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Surgical removal of tumors is complicated due to difficulty localizing them amongst normal tissue. Researchers at National Cancer Center Republic of Korea used PLA-PEG-PLA (cat# AK138) and PCL-PEG-PCL (cat# AK035) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop fluorescent marker gel to locate tumors. This research holds promise to improve the surgical outcomes of tumor removal. Read more: Lee, Seon Sook, and Yongdoo Choi. "Near-Infrared Dye-Loaded Thermosensitive Hydrogels as Novel Fluorescence Tissue Markers." Gels 11, no. 8 (2025): 649. https://www.mdpi.com/2310-2861/11/8/649

“Abstract: Accurate intraoperative localization of deep-seated lesions remains a major challenge in minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic and robotic surgeries. Current marking strategies—including ink tattooing and metallic clips—are limited by dye diffusion, or poor intraoperative visibility. To address these issues, we developed and evaluated four thermosensitive injectable hydrogel systems incorporating indocyanine green-human serum albumin (ICG-HSA) complexes: (1) hexanoyl glycol chitosan (HGC), (2) Pluronic F-127, (3) PCL–PEG–PCL, and (4) PLA–PEG–PLA. All hydrogel formulations exhibited sol–gel transitions at physiological temperatures, facilitating in situ dye entrapment and prolonged fluorescence retention. In vivo fluorescence imaging revealed that HGC and Pluronic F-127 hydrogels retained signals for up to five and two days, respectively. In contrast, polyester-based hydrogels (PCL–PEG–PCL and PLA–PEG–PLA) preserved fluorescence for up to 21–30 days. PLA–PEG–PLA showed the highest signal-to-background ratios and sustained intensity, while PCL–PEG–PCL also achieved long-term retention. These findings suggest that thermosensitive hydrogels incorporating ICG-HSA complexes represent promising tissue marker platforms for real-time, minimally invasive, and long-term fluorescence-guided lesion tracking. Keywords: surgical marker; laparoscopic surgery; near-infrared fluorescence imaging; thermosensitive polymer”

PLA-PEG-PLA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK138#h)

PCL-PEG-PCL (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AK035#h)

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 9/30/25: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Chemotherapy has several side effects including, in the case of cisplatin, hearing damage. Researchers at University of California Los Angelas utilized PCL (Cat# AS009, Ashland Distributed product) purchased from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/) to develop an N-acetylcysteine delivery system to protect hearing. This research can help prevent a common side-effect of chemotherapy. Read more: Smith, Eric Michael, Carmen Boixo, Larry Hoffman, and Ashley E. Kita. "Transtympanic Injection of Antioxidant‐Eluting Microparticles for Otoprotection From Cisplatin Toxicity in a Mouse Model." Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (2025). https://aao-hnsfjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ohn.70002

“Abstract: Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent with the undesirable side effect of ototoxicity. Transtympanic injections of antioxidant formulations may provide local otoprotection. We tested a novel antioxidant-eluting microparticle for its otoprotective capability from systemic cisplatin as measured by cochlear electrophysiology. Eighteen mice were assigned to three groups. All mice underwent baseline click-evoked auditory brainstem response (ABR) audiometry and right ear microparticle injections before beginning 42-day intraperitoneal administration regimens of either saline (healthy control empty microparticle [HCEMP] group) or cisplatin (cisplatin empty microparticle [CEMP] group and cisplatin N-acetylcysteine microparticle [CNAC] group). These regimens consisted of three 4-day cycles of intraperitoneal saline or cisplatin administration followed by 10 rest days. HCEMP and CEMP received right-sided transtympanic empty microparticles, and CNAC received transtympanic N-acetylcysteine eluting microparticles. On day 43, all mice underwent posttreatment ABR. ABR thresholds and threshold shifts were analyzed with mixed-effects models and Tukey's post hoc tests and were compared across pretreatment/posttreatment ears, treatment groups, and injected and non-injected ears. We found that threshold shifts in the ears that received a transtympanic injection of N-acetylcysteine and three cycles of intraperitoneal cisplatin were similar to the paired ears of mice that received no cisplatin. Mice that received a transtympanic injection without N-acetylcysteine and intraperitoneal cisplatin had increased thresholds compared to mice that received a transtympanic injection of N-acetylcysteine and cisplatin. Transtympanic N-acetylcysteine microparticle injections provided functional otoprotection in cisplatin-exposed mice.”

Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/

Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/

BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 9/30/25: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Fisheries require protection from viral diseases that can be devastating to the aquatic population. Researchers at Mahidol University used PLGA (AP059) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop microparticles for delivery of anti-viral protein. This research holds promise to help protect food-supply. Read more: Kriangsaksri, Ruttanaporn, Suparat Taengchaiyaphum, Pattaree Payomhom, Dararat Thaiue, Ornchuma Itsathitphaisarn, Kallaya Sritunyalucksana, and Kanlaya Prapainop Katewongsa. "Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) Microspheres Encapsulating a Viral-Binding Protein, PmRab7, for Preventing White Spot Syndrome Virus in Shrimp." ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering (2025). https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5c00928

“White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is one of the most devastating pathogens affecting shrimp. Within a short time, it leads to a hundred percent mortality rate, which causes substantial economic losses. PmRab7 has been reported to bind to the envelope protein of WSSV, VP28, resulting in a reduction of viral replication. In order to apply PmRab7 in shrimp feed, the development of delivery systems is crucial. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a biodegradable polymer extensively studied for drug delivery in the form of nanoparticles or microspheres (MSs). Despite its potential, PLGA has not been previously reported for antiviral use in shrimp. This study is the first to demonstrate the potential use of PLGA and chitosan-coated PLGA (PLGA/CS) MSs for the delivery of PmRab7 in shrimp. Both PLGA and PLGA/CS were optimized and characterized to allow for a sustained release of encapsulated PmRab7. Initial in vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrated that both MSs are safe for use in shrimp, can sustain the release of PmRab7, and enhance its antiviral activity as shown by a decrease in the mortality rate in shrimp. The development of these MSs has the potential to significantly enhance disease control in shrimp aquaculture, leading to more effective and sustainable practices that will ultimately bolster the industry’s growth and long-term stability.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP059#h)
Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/
Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/
Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/
July 14-18: meet at 2025 CRS AM&E Poster #274
BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 9/30/25: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

Delivery of vaccines by the oral pathway is complicated due to damage in the stomach and poor oral uptake. Researchers at University of Kansas used PLGA-PEG-COOH (AI166) and PLGA (AP121) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to develop nanoparticles for vaccine delivery. This research holds promise to provide for improved vaccine delivery. Read more: Xie, Jin, Xiaodi Li, Grahmm A. Funk, Su Jeong Song, Udita Shah, Connor S. Ahlquist, and Hyunjoon Kim. "Immunostimulatory Pickering emulsion for oral vaccine delivery." International Journal of Pharmaceutics (2025): 125890. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517325007276

“To overcome gastric acid degradation and ensure robust immune activation, a novel Pickering emulsion stabilized by poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles was developed for the co-delivery of vaccine antigens and adjuvants via the oral route. Pickering emulsions, stabilized by solid particles, can enhance stability and protect antigens from gastric degradation. We encapsulated a TLR7/8 agonist R848 in PLGA nanoparticles and fabricated Pickering emulsions (R848-PLGA-NP@PE) to boost immune activation, and further prepared model antigen Ovalbumin (OVA) loaded Pickering emulsion formulation (R848-PLGA-NP@PE-OVA) to induce antigen-specific immune responses. R848-PLGA-NPs can improve vaccine efficacy by serving both as a stabilizer and an adjuvant, activating antigen-presenting cells (APCs). R848-PLGA-NP@PE-OVA exhibited a uniform particle size (245 nm), stable zeta potential (−40 mV), and high antigen encapsulation efficiency (>80 %), that were tested in Simulated Intestinal Fluid (SIF) and Simulated Gastric Fluid (SGF). R848-PLGA-NP@PE exhibited enhanced uptake by and activation of dendritic cells compared to control groups. In vivo, R848-PLGA-NP@PE significantly improved CD4 + T cell, CD8 + T cell, and NK cell activation. Notably, granzyme B expression in NK cells reached 2.1 times the level of the PBS group and 1.45 times that of the Free OVA + R848 group. The OVA-specific IgG level in the R848-PLGA-NP@PE-OVA group was approximately 3.9 times that of the PBS group and 2.5 times that of the free R848 + OVA group. Fecal OVA-specific IgA levels were significantly higher than control group. The combined data suggests that Pickering emulsions fabricated with PLGA-NPs are versatile oral vaccine delivery platforms to induce cellular and humoral immune responses.”

PLGA (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP121#h)
PLGA-PEG-COOH (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AI166#h)
Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/
Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/
Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/
July 14-18: meet at 2025 CRS AM&E Poster #274
BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 9/30/25: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)

There are many ways polyesters can be synthesized. Researchers at Tsinghua University and Shandong University used polyvalerolactone (Cat# AP299) from PolySciTech Division of Akina, Inc. (www.polyscitech.com) to research novel techniques in polymerization. Read more: Wang, Jiale, Xu Yan, Shuang Zheng, Rou Wen, Yiling Chen, Weinan Yang, Junting Sheng, Qiong Wu, Fuqing Wu, and Guo-Qiang Chen. "Biosynthesis of poly (δ-valerolactone)(PVL) by Halomonas bluephagenesis." Chemical Engineering Journal (2025): 165410. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1385894725062461

“Microbial polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are promising for wide applications including food and medical packaging, drug delivery systems, coatings and bone scaffolds. The diverse properties of PHA are dependent on the variety of hydroxy fatty acid monomers. Microbial synthesis of homopolymers has been challenging except for poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB). In this study, an engineered metabolic pathway in Halomonas bluephagenesis was constructed to produce poly(5-hydroxyvalerate) (P5HV) or poly(δ-valerolactone) (PVL). PHA synthase PhaCBP-MCPF4 (PhaCun) and 4-hydroxybutyrate CoA-transferase (AbfT) were identified as suitable for the artificial metabolic pathway. Deletion on the endogenous phaCAB for poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) synthesis was crucial to reduce 3-hydroxybutyric acid (3HB) monomer ratio in P(3HB-5HV) copolymer from 36% to 0.2% when expressing abfT and phaCun on plasmid pWJL55, or from 38% to 18% when expressing abfT and phaCun on genome. Additionally, deletion of the endogenous acyl-CoA thioesterase gene tesB enhanced 5HV molar ratio from 75% to 81% in P(3HB-5HV), as it removed the CoA moiety from 5HV-CoA. Subsequently, deletion of endogenous fadB gene encoding enoyl-CoA hydratase formed a near PVL homopolymer. The resulted H. bluephagenesis JL03 was grown to 23 g/L dry cell weight containing 58% PVL after 44 h cultivation in a 7-L bioreactor. The PVL exhibited better mechanical properties compared to chemically synthesized PVL, with an elongation at break of 521%, a Young’s modulus of 293 MPa, and a higher molecular weight of 149 kDa.”

PVL (AP299) (https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/polyvivo/index.php?highlight=AP299#h)
Benchtop to Bedside with MidWest GMP https://www.akinainc.com/midwestgmp/
Corbion Purasorb® Polymers: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/purasorb/
Ashland-TM Polymer Products: https://akinainc.com/polyscitech/products/ashland/
July 14-18: meet at 2025 CRS AM&E Poster #274
BPR Akina's Free Scientific Conference (West Lafayette, 9/30/25: (https://akinainc.com/bprconference/)