This lecture will describe nano- / micro-fabrication and 3D printing technologies that we have invented and employed to advance human health. In 2004 we invented Particle Replication in Non-wetting Templates (PRINT), a high-resolution imprint lithography-based process to fabricate nano- and micro-particles with precise and independent control over particle parameters (e.g. size, shape, modulus, surface chemistry). PRINT led us to launch Liquidia Technologies (NASDAQ: LQDA) and opened new research paths, including to elucidate the influence of specific particle parameters in biological systems, and to inform the design of vaccines and targeted therapeutics. In 2015 we reported the invention of Continuous Liquid Interface Production (CLIP), which overcame limitations in polymer 3D printing—slowness, a very limited range of materials, and an inability to create parts with the mechanical and thermal properties needed for widespread utility. CLIP is transforming how products are made. In medicine, for example, to help address shortages, CLIP enabled a new COVID-19 nasopharyngeal testing swab to go from concept to market in 20 days, followed by a 400-patient clinical trial at Stanford. Academic labs are also using CLIP, including to create IVRs that optimize drug delivery, and implantable chemotherapy absorbers to limit toxic side effects. Vast opportunities also exist in next-generation devices. For example, the fabrication of an iontophoretic device we invented several years ago to treat hard-to-reach solid tumors is now being optimized for clinical trials with CLIP. We are also pursuing new advances including software treatment planning for digital therapeutic devices in pediatric medicine, as well as the design of a single-digit micron resolution printer to advance microneedle designs for vaccine applications. Our impact in human health relies on our ability to foster a convergent research program that allows for new connections to be made among traditionally disparate disciplines and concepts, and to maintain a consistent focus on the translational potential of our advances.

Convergent, translational research to improve human health

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.