Rising to the Challenge of Reproductive Choice
Overview of innovation
Stellenbosch’s solution is a 2-component injectable hydrogel designed to block the vas deferens, thus preventing the passage of sperm cells. Unlike a vasectomy, this hydrogel is reversible, restoring fertility.
The hydrogel is formulated from two aqueous polymer solutions with complementary reactive groups that form a gel in 10-30 seconds upon mixing. This rapid gelation minimises damage to the vas deferens.
Our solution is a two-component hydrogel designed for non-surgical placement in the vas deferens, physically blocking sperm passage.
Key Technical Differentiators:
- Reversible On-Demand: Unlike vasectomy, fertility is restored by injecting a biocompatible compound that rapidly and cleanly “uncrosslinks” and dissolves the hydrogel into a low-viscosity solution.
- Superior Reversibility: Our low-viscosity dissolution offers significantly cleaner removal than other products, minimising potential damage and enhancing patient confidence.
- Non-Hormonal: Avoids the systemic side effects associated with hormonal methods.
- Minimal Tissue Damage: The rapid gelation (10–30 seconds) and low injection viscosity reduce deformation of the vas deferens.
Type of Intellectual Property protection
Patent
Know how
Innovation Opportunity Type
Investment
Licensing
Partnership
Industry
Manufacturing
Manufacture of pharmaceuticals, medicinal chemical and botanical products
Professional, scientific and technical activities
Scientific research and development
Human health and social work activities
Human health activities
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 4 – Experimental prototype developed
Website link
https://app.in-part.com/university-dashboard/technologies/20083