Emily A Mchugh

Title: Emily A. McHugh: Inventor of a Therapeutic Carbon Nanomaterial

Introduction

Emily A. McHugh is an inventor associated with Houston, Texas, and the Texas A&M University System and William Marsh Rice University. Her patent work concerns oxidized carbon nanomaterials and their potential use in biological polysulfide synthesis. McHugh is credited with 1 patent.

Latest Patents

McHugh’s patent, “Therapeutic Carbon Nanomaterial HS Oxidants for Biological Polysulfide Synthesis,” describes a method for catalytically forming persulfide or polysulfide from hydrogen sulfide in vitro and in vivo. The method contacts cells with oxidized carbon nanoparticulate material containing carbonyl, hydroxyl, and carboxyl substituents.

The disclosed approach is intended for cells affected by oxidative stress, traumatic brain injury, or hypoxia, as well as cells with excess hydrogen sulfide or deficient protein persulfidation. The patent describes oxidized carbon nanoparticulate material made from various sources, with activated charcoal identified as a preferred source. It also describes water-dispersible material that can remain dispersed for at least seven days at concentrations of about 1–5 mg/mL without added hydrophilic polymers. The material is further characterized by a UV absorbance maximum near 220 nm in water and the ability to pass through a 0.22 μm pore PES membrane.

Career Highlights

McHugh’s listed institutional affiliations include the Texas A&M University System and William Marsh Rice University. Her patent reflects work at the intersection of nanomaterials and therapeutic methods involving hydrogen sulfide and biological sulfur compounds.

Collaborations

Paul J. Derry is identified as a coworker associated with McHugh’s work.

Conclusion

Emily A. McHugh’s patent presents oxidized carbon nanoparticulate material as a potential tool for promoting persulfide and polysulfide formation in biological settings.