Our researchers are at the forefront of clinical, education, and basic science surgical research. Learn about some of the recent patents awarded to investigators in our Department.
Methods for Producing Insulin-Secreting Beta Cells from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Jon Odorico, MD, is lead inventor on this patent for a method of culturing human pluripotent stem cells to produce pancreatic lineage cells. Transplantation of whole pancreas or isolated islet cells are effective treatment for Type I diabetes when paired with immune-suppression. However, a lack of available organs and islet cells has restricted this therapy to very few patients. Dr. Odorico and his team are researching ways to produce significant quantities of cells in the pancreatic lineage for use in Type I diabetes treatment. The research team have been developing their method for producing these cells for years, and this patent reflects improvements in their process, resulting in more effective cell development. This patent represents work completed at University of Wisconsin and Regenerative Medical Solutions, Inc., a biotech company of which Dr. Odorico is Scientific Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer. Learn more about Dr. Odorico’s lab.
Multiphoton Scanning Flow Cytometer for Multicellular Aggregates
Luis Fernandez, MD, is a co-inventor on this patent for a flow cytometer system that can sense characteristics about multi-cellular aggregates. Flow cytometers are used to measure and identify a variety of factors about cells that are generated from stem cells or other cells in regenerative medicine treatments. This system uses a multiphoton laser scanning microscope to provide interior florescence measurements when it processes cells. Their improvements to the system allows for analysis of 3D cell structures, and reduces damage to cells as they are processed. Learn more about Dr. Fernandez’s islet research lab.
Tannin-Containing Gastrointestinal Formulations and Methods of Use
Kenneth Kudsk, MD, is a co-inventor on this patent for a discovery about the role of tannins in improved nutritional outcomes in restricted nutrition scenarios (enteral or parenteral nutrition). Dr. Kudsk and his team found that including tannins, a class of compounds found in many plant-based food and beverages, in enteral or parenteral nutrition formulations reduces negative side effects in restricted nutrition settings in mice experiments.