Agenta Biotechnologies has received a $1.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health and National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH/NIDCR) for the further development of a biologically activated membrane to improve soft-tissue healing associated with oral surgery.
Agenta's novel technology leverages specialized protein molecules that enhance growth factor activity and promote healing through various known mechanisms, according to the company. These include carrying and activating important growth factors in healing, providing structure, increasing blood supply, and tissue hydration. Accordingly, the company believes that these potential therapeutics may have application in the healing of bone, cartilage, skin, and disks in the spine, as well as serving as coatings for vascular stents and implants.
In partnership with Bonenta, Agenta is currently applying its technology to the development of therapeutics for enhanced bone healing in the skull and growth of essential new bone in the mandible and around teeth. Using funds from a previous NIH grant directed at bone repair, the companies have already reported positive preclinical data and are preparing for FDA interactions as the next step toward human clinical trials, Agenta noted.
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