BL4-1 PleuraPlug

The PleuraPlug technology is to be used for the treatment of pleural fistulas. Pleural fistulas are pathological connections between the lungs and the pleura that can be caused by tumors, trauma, microbial infections or postoperatively, for example after tumor resection. The PleuraPlug technology offers an interdisciplinary solution based on composite microgels consisting of the bio-based components pectin, obtained from sugar beet, and silk protein from the Bombyx mori silkworm. The microgels are loaded with growth factors and decorated with affibodies specific for cell surface receptors. This actively recruits fibroblasts, which migrate into the hydrogel network.

After cell immobilization and stimulation of cell profiling, they form the final and airtight closure of the fistula. To realize the endoscopic injection, two batches of composite microgels are produced, which are equipped with complementary interaction partners. The separate application of the complementary microgel batches with a two-channel catheter results in cross-linking of the microgel batches in the area of the pleural fistula and the formation of a stable network as a scaffold structure for cell growth.

In the first year after the development of the technology, the PleuraPlug technology will be evaluated and optimized in in-vitro experiments in the second year. In the second year of the project, work will begin on establishing an animal model in order to validate the technology in-vivo in the third year of the project.