Sharjah, UAE. January 18, 2024 – In a world where the search for a revolutionary cancer treatment to save lives is of paramount importance, an American University of Sharjah (AUS) research team has successfully secured a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for a pioneering chemotherapy treatment model.
Led by Dr. Ghaleb Husseini, AUS Professor in Chemical and Biological Engineering, the team also included Dr. Mohammad Al-Sayah, Professor in Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences at the AUS College of Arts and Sciences; and Amal Elsadig, a 2018 graduate of the AUS Master of Science in Chemical Engineering program.
The novel chemotherapy platform utilizes tiny capsules, known as Herceptin-targeted nanocarriers, that may encapsulate multiple anticancer agents, including nine chemotherapy drugs. When these nanocarriers bind with breast cancer tissues, they are activated by ultrasound waves, releasing the medication directly into the affected tissues only.
“This approach ensures the delivery of highly concentrated therapeutic doses to cancerous cells while sparing healthy cells, significantly reducing the adverse side effects that often accompany chemotherapy. This is why this patent represents a remarkable advancement in the realm of cancer treatment, opening doors to more effective and less burdensome therapies for cancer patients,” said Dr. Husseini.
He added: “The patent’s significance lies in its suitability for diseases like breast tumors, given the widespread availability of ultrasound equipment in clinics, making this technology more accessible to patients.”
Building on the team’s previous patent issued in 2020, this new addition encompasses both high frequencies and high-power levels of ultrasound.
Dr. Al-Sayah highlighted the patent’s potential impact: “We are at the threshold of a new era in cancer treatment. This patent is a testament to our relentless pursuit of better, less invasive therapies that can transform the lives of cancer patients.”
The research team is currently immersed in vivo testing aimed at fine-tuning the ultrasound parameters, a crucial step towards the practical application of this innovative technology.
“I am deeply honored to have been part of this remarkable journey. This patent represents a significant step towards a brighter future for cancer patients, and I’m thrilled to have played a role in it,” said Elsadeg.
The patent underscores the dedication of AUS faculty to research excellence and social responsibility, exemplifying their commitment to enhancing lives, aligning with AUS’ mission to make a meaningful impact in the face of pressing global challenges.
For more information on research at AUS, visit www.aus.edu/research-and-graduate-studies.
About AUS
American University of Sharjah (AUS) was founded in 1997 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikh Sultan articulated his vision of a distinctive institution against the backdrop of Islamic history and in the context of the aspirations and needs of contemporary society in the UAE and the Gulf region.
Firmly grounded in principles of meritocracy and with a strong reputation for academic excellence, AUS has come to represent the very best in teaching and research, accredited internationally and recognized by employers the world over for creating graduates equipped with the knowledge, skills and drive to lead in the 21st century.
AUS values learners not driven only by academic success, but by those that embrace our dynamic campus life and embody our ideals of openness, tolerance and respect. This combination of academic excellence and community spirit ensures AUS is filled with world-class faculty and students, poised to become the innovators, thinkers, contributors and leaders of tomorrow.