University of Utah Research Foundation

Azadeh Poursaid

Joseph Cappello

Hamidreza Ghandehari

Mark Martin Jensen

Hamid Ghandehari

Described herein are chemoembolic compositions and agents. The compositions include one or more anti-cancer agents and a silk-elastinlike protein polymer, wherein the compositions are liquids prior to administration to a subject but convert to hydrogels upon administration to the subject. Administration of the chemoembolic compositions to tumor and/or tumor vasculature in a subject having cancer can result in reduced or inhibited blood flow to the tumor as well as localized, sustained release of the anti-cancer agent in the vicinity of the tumor. Reduction in blood flow, in turn, results in a reduction of tumor volume and/or inhibition of tumor growth, while localized release of the anti-cancer agent results in reduced systemic effects and lower overall toxicity of treatment with the compositions.

Methods for producing chemoembolic agents for the delivery of anti-cancer agents

A chemoembolic agent is disclosed that includes an injectable, recombinantly synthesized silk-elastin like protein copolymer and one or more chemotherapeutic agents. Upon injection, the chemoembolic agent blocks the tumor vasculature, including the capillary bed, and may optionally release chemotherapeutic agents. The chemoembolic agent may be used to treat cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma.

Growing community of inventors

Salt Lake City, UT, United States of America

Azadeh Poursaid