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Biotechnology and Biomedical License Opportunities


Biotechnology

Expression of Polypeptides in Yeast
Using transformed strains of yeast, recombinant proteins may be produced inexpensively and in large quantities using our patented processes and compositions. Recombinant proteins are commonly used in drugs and vaccines, diagnostics, foodstuffs such as sweeteners and growth enhancers, industrial processes and for drug discovery.   Licenses are available for research use only and for commercialization of recombinant proteins by field of use.

Diagnostic Methods for Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR)
University of Washington researchers were the first to identify Chlamydia pneumoniae (or TWAR) as a pathogenic organism distinct from C. trachomatis and C. psittaci and were the first to develop diagnostic methods for the detection of C. pneumoniae.  The patented methods and compositions for direct and indirect organism detection using immunoassays are available for non-exclusive licensing.

DNA Sequences for Human Alpha-1-Antitrypsin
The cDNA, and nucleic acids complementary to the cDNA, encoding human Alpha-1-Antitrypsin (AAT), a protease inhibitor, are claimed in our patents. Licenses to produce a recombinant AAT protein therapeutic or an AAT gene therapy are available.

Gene Sequences of the Chlamydia trachomatis Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP)
Chlamydia trachomatis causes a common sexually transmitted disease as well as trachoma, the world's leading cause of blindness.  Researchers at the University of Washington in collaboration with Chiron cloned and expressed the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) of C. trachomatis.  Our patents claim the use of the MOMP protein or nucleic acid sequences in vaccines and diagnostics.

Universal Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Substrate
Researchers at the University of Washington have identified a peptide that is an excellent substrate for protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) enzymatic assays.  The patented peptide enables researchers to measure PTP activity in immunoprecipitates and eliminates the need for a time-consuming purification procedure.

Assays for Chondrogenesis
The patents claim immunoassays and nucleic acid-based assays for osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the articulating cartilage of joints.  The technology is based upon detection of type IIA procollagen protein and mRNA.

DNA Libraries
A patented method for producing a single chromosome amplification library comprising flow-sorting chromosomes or fragments of chromosomes and amplifying them for use in "in situ" hybridization.



Diagnostics

Assays for Chondrogenesis
The patents claim immunoassays and nucleic acid-based assays for osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the articulating cartilage of joints.  The technology is based upon detection of type IIA procollagen protein and mRNA.

Diagnostic Methods for Chlamydia pneumoniae (TWAR)
University of Washington researchers were the first to identify Chlamydia pneumoniae (or TWAR) as a pathogenic organism separate from C. trachomatis and C. psittaci and were the first to develop diagnostic methods for the detection of C. pneumoniae.  The patented methods and compositions for direct and indirect organism detection using immunoassays are available for non-exclusive licensing.

Gene Sequences of the Chlamydia trachomatis Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP)
Chlamydia trachomatis causes a common sexually transmitted disease as well as trachoma, the world's leading cause of blindness.  Researchers at the University of Washington in collaboration with Chiron cloned and expressed the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) of C. trachomatis.  Our patents claim the use of the MOMP protein or nucleic acid sequences in vaccines and diagnostics.


Medical Devices

CHARM™ drug delivery technology
Self-assembled lipid-based CHARM (complex high axial ratio microstructure) devices are patented for used in controlled drug delivery or vaccination.  The microstructures in this system present a unique method for controlled release of a wide range of molecules including peptides and DNA. 

The Caroline Guide
The Caroline Guide is a simple non-invasive medical device that assists a surgeon in the placement of posterior shunts for the treatment of hydrocephalus.

Design for An Endoscopic Ultrasound Miniprobe in a Flexible Sealed Bag (click here for animated graphics)
The design comprises an ultrasound transducer enclosed in a flexible sealed bag containing acoustic coupling fluid for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). The sealed bag contains a constant volume of coupling fluid that improves acoustical contact resulting in superior imaging.

Detection of Barrett's Metaplasia of the Esophagus
A patented system for detecting Barrett's metaplasia consisting of a flexible catheter with a probe containing an illuminator and a light detector.  This system can be used with or without an imaging agent.

Translumenal Ultrasound Probe for 3D Imaging
A patented multi-planar translumenal ultrasound probe that uses an electro-magnetic sensor.

Endoscopic Accessory Containment Method
A patented therapeutic or diagnostic accessory and containment system for use with a flexible or rigid endoscope during an endoscopic procedure.

Securitip™ Accessory
The Securitip™ is an accessory that protects an endoscope or other medical device from being punctured by a needle or other sharp tool while in use.


Pharmaceuticals

Use of Interleukin 7 to Improve Vaccine Potency
A patented method for improving the potency of a human or animal vaccine based on administering IL-7 to enhance humoral (antibody-based) immunity.