Technology

At Dharma therapeutics we focus on developing new formulations for transdermal delivery and combine these with modern delivery technologies to create a next-generation drug loaded delivery device.

Sidestepping the problems associated with use of crosslinked hydrogels we are utilizing linear dispersions that increase the mobility of ions while retaining a physical structure important for stable patches. Additionally, we have formulated drugs in special mixtures of lecithins and combined these with iontophoretic delivery. The Lecithin Organogel Assisted Delivery (LOAD^TM) can be utilized to deliver bioactive peptides across the skin. With this technology we have rapidly delivered peptides as large as 4000 Dalton across models of human skin at therapeutic levels. Similarly, the LOAD^TM technology can be used for passive delivery of charged molecules. In this embodiment, the delivery of molecules was demonstrated on the benchtop as well as in vivo and biological responses were modified by the topical application of LOAD^TM/drug combinations.

While we do not focus on one specific technology, our most mature product is an iontophoretic device. Iontophoresis, derived from the Greek words for “go” (ienai) “in” (iont) and “to carry across” (phoros), is the process of using electric fields to move molecules through the skin into the body. This opens the exciting possibility of needle and pain-free drug delivery in a rapid, controlled manner directly into the body. Because electric fields are coupled directly to the amount of drug delivered, pairing delivery to intelligent, computer control can be easily achieved. Utilizing our expertise in product formulations and device engineering we have demonstrated efficient delivery of opiates, amide-type local anesthetics, bisphosphonates, NSAIDS and other small molecules that traditionally do not permeate the skin barrier.

Dharma Therapeutics, Inc., as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore-based Transcu Ltd., has full access to their proprietary TransCutaneous Technology (TCTTM). This technology gives flexibility in specific electric and delivery components that allows superior delivery in a safer, controlled manner without the side effects or fluctuations seen with other technologies. We are currently attempting to move our delivery systems into human clinical tests to conquer pain, infectious disease, allergies, and side effects of aging.