ViaCyte’s devices are designed for implantation and cell survival and function
A key component of ViaCyte’s devices is composed of a medical-grade plastic called expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), which is produced by W.L. Gore & Associates (Gore). To develop leading cell encapsulation technologies, ViaCyte and Gore are working in partnership to combine Gore’s material science and implantable medical device expertise and ViaCyte’s preclinical and clinical experience with human cell replacement therapies. The combined effort is first being applied to the PEC-Encap product candidate currently under development as a potential functional cure for patients with type 1 diabetes.
The devices are manufactured from implant-grade materials specifically selected for long-term biocompatibility. All of the devices are designed to be subcutaneously implanted and allow oxygen, nutrients, proteins, and other molecules necessary for cell survival and function to reach the cells, and for insulin and other proteins secreted by the cells to leave the device and enter the blood vessels that form on the surface of the device to deliver therapeutic activity. Because the cells are contained within and remain in the devices, they allow for retrieval of the implanted cells, an important safety consideration.
In addition, ViaCyte’s devices may be suitable for use with other therapeutic agents. For example, the devices could be used to provide a platform for enzyme or hormone replacement therapies.
