Sticky hydrogel slows drug release 20x, extends treatment span

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel peptide hydrogel platform called SABER (self-assembling boronate ester release) that significantly slows drug release, extending treatment duration by up to 20 times. SABER works by forming a three-dimensional net that temporarily traps drug molecules, allowing for gradual release. This system is versatile, effective for a range of drugs from small molecules to large biologics like insulin and antibodies. In mouse studies, a single SABER injection of a tuberculosis drug outperformed nearly daily oral doses over two weeks, and insulin delivered via SABER controlled blood sugar for six days compared to the usual four-hour effect of conventional insulin. The hydrogel is biocompatible, dissolving safely after injection without toxic byproducts. The SABER platform was developed through interdisciplinary collaboration, combining chemistry and biomedical engineering expertise. The concept originated from dynamic covalent bonds used in glucose sensors, adapted to create a "sticky" hydrogel that controls drug release timing and location. The research team is