Susan C Pankey

Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Susan C. Pankey**

Introduction

Susan C. Pankey, an accomplished inventor based in Yardley, Pennsylvania, has made significant contributions to the field of biomedical engineering and drug delivery systems. With a total of three patents to her name, her work focuses on innovative formulations that enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Latest Patents

Pankey's latest patent involves the **prolonged release of GM-CSF** (Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor). She has developed formulations for controlled and prolonged release of GM-CSF based on solid microparticles, which are made from biodegradable, synthetic polymers such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(glycolic acid) (PGA). These formulations can achieve zero-order or first-order release, and even multiphasic release, lasting from approximately three to twenty-one days, with a preferred duration of one week when administered through injections. The microparticles are designed as microspheres with diameters between 10 to 60 microns, utilizing a blend of PLGA with varying molecular weights (6,000, 30,000, and 41,000). Pankey has also explored different embodiments to modify release kinetics and drug distribution in vivo. Notably, she has developed ways to employ polymers that elicit mild inflammatory reactions to act as chemoattractants, or those that are bioadhesive for transmucosal or oral delivery. Additionally, GM-CSF can be delivered in a hydrogel for controlled release, enhancing stimulation of hematopoietic cell proliferation, particularly in white blood cells.

Career Highlights

Throughout her career, Susan has collaborated with leading companies in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. Notably, she worked at Immunex Corporation and American Cyanamid Company, where she honed her expertise in drug formulation and delivery systems, contributing to the development of cutting-edge medical therapies.

Collaborations

Pankey has had the opportunity to work alongside several notable professionals, including Wayne Richard Gombotz and Dean K. Pettit. These collaborations have helped propel her research and innovations to new horizons, enhancing the impact of her inventions.

Conclusion

Susan C. Pankey's dedication to advancing pharmaceutical formulations and innovative delivery methods makes her a notable figure in the field of biomedical engineering. Her patents not only highlight her inventive spirit but also pave the way for new therapeutic strategies that could greatly benefit patient care. Her contributions serve as an inspiration to aspiring inventors and innovators in the industry.