Discover your next big idea for life sciences at PACK EXPO Las Vegas
Experience a breakthrough in life sciences packaging—explore solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries, all in one place this September

Tiny Sponge Makes Chemo Less Toxic

Scientists are hoping a new ‘drug sponge’ will prevent chemotherapy drugs from poisoning other organs in the body.

Drug Sponge / Image: Hee Jeung Oh
Drug Sponge / Image: Hee Jeung Oh

A recent BBC article discussed a new method to contain the damage caused by chemotherapy drugs. Scientists funded by the National Institutes of Health and The National Cancer Institute have developed a tiny sponge that rests inside veins and collects excess chemo drugs after they’ve attacked a tumor. They believe the tiny tactic could prevent side effects such as hair loss and nausea. The team behind the sponge has tested it on pigs, and now they want to test it in people.

Because the device is 3D-printed, each one can be custom fit to each individual patient. The sponge essentially acts as a tiny colander with a mesh interior that’s coated with a substance that absorbs drugs, but allows blood to flow through. In the pig tests, the sponge soaked up 64% of a chemo drug called doxorubicin. Best of all, the drugs stay in the sponge permanently, meaning it won’t leak out when the device is removed from the body.

FDA warning letters surge - is your team prepared?
New guide reveals expert strategies to prevent regulatory issues and respond effectively to FDA enforcement actions in pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing.
Read More
FDA warning letters surge - is your team prepared?
Break out of the ordinary: see what’s new in life sciences packaging
<strong>At PACK EXPO Las Vegas, you’ll see machinery in action and new tech from 2,300 suppliers, collaborate with experts and explore transformative solutions. Join us in September to experience a breakthrough for life sciences products.</strong>
REGISTER NOW & SAVE!
Break out of the ordinary: see what’s new in life sciences packaging