Advanced functional biocompatible polymeric matrix containing nano-compartments

Abstract

The present invention provides a novel biomaterial which is a hybrid, self-assembling biopolymeric networked film that is functionalized through hydrophobic interactions with vesicles loaded with bioactive agents. The biomaterial compound is a polymeric network of hydrophobically modified chitosan scaffolds that is taken from solution and formed as a solid film. This solid state film is capable of hydrophobic interactions with the functionalized vesicles. The vesicles include one or more lamellar structures forming one or more nano-compartments that are capable of containing similar or alternative active moieties within. Use of the film results in a degradation of the chitosan scaffold thereby releasing the active moieties within the vesicles from the scaffold. Application of the current invention occurs through various delivery mechanisms and routes of administration as will be described herein.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A solution, comprising:
 a chitosan derivative with one or more hydrophobic moieties covalently attached to the chitosan, wherein said moieties are organic compounds with a backbone of at least six and no more than thirty six carbon atoms.   
     
     
         2 . The solution of  claim 1  is in the form of one of a lotion, a creams, and a gels. 
     
     
         3 . The solution of  claim 1 , wherein <10% of available amines in the chitosan are occupied by the one or more hydrophobic moieties. 
     
     
         4 . The solution of  claim 1 , is used to treat chronic wounds and burns. 
     
     
         5 . The solution of  claim 1 , in the form of a liquid drink for oral ingestion. 
     
     
         6 . The solution of  claim 5 , wherein <10% of available amines in the chitosan are occupied by the one or more hydrophobic moieties. 
     
     
         7 . A method for the treatment of wounds comprising applying a solution directly to a wounded or inflamed area;
 wherein the solution comprises a chitosan derivative with one or more hydrophobic moieties covalently attached to the chitosan, said moieties are organic compounds with a backbone of at least six and no more than thirty six carbon atoms.   
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the solution is in the form of one of a lotion, a cream, and a gel. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the hydrophobic moieties occupy <10% of available amines in the chitosan. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the wounded or inflamed area is hemorrhaging. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 7 , the wounded or inflamed area is a chronic wound. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the wounded or inflamed area is a burn. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the solution self-assembles to treat the wounded or inflamed area. 
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the solution uses strong bioadhesion to treat the wounded or inflamed area. 
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the solution readily binds to negatively charged surfaces.