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Oriel device serves as `smart' inhaler

An invention by University scientists has led to the formation of Oriel Therapeutics Inc., a company that will develop and commercialize a "smart" inhaler for patients with lung disorders and diseases. Unlike conventional inhalers, which deliver a constant stream of a drug, the Oriel device monitors the patient's breathing and adjusts the delivery of the drug to improve treatment.

Oriel was founded by Anthony Hickey, a professor in the School of Pharmacy, and by Timm Crowder, who recently earned a doctoral degree in biomedical engineering at Carolina.

"This technology will enhance the treatment options for asthmatics and those suffering with other pulmonary diseases," Hickey said. "It may also be an effective approach to the delivery of drugs for heart disease, cancer and diabetes."

The company, which recently raised its first round of private financing and has moved into facilities in Research Triangle Park, exclusively licensed the patent rights from the University under an agreement signed last October. Under the agreement, the University received equity in the company and will receive royalties on sales of devices.

"This is an exciting technology with enormous potential to help patients and promote economic development in North Carolina," said Mark Crowell, director of the Office of Technology Development, which assisted Oriel's formation. "The inventors have worked very hard to get their technology ready for the marketplace. We think this company's on a fast track to success."

The invention resulted from a decade of research into pharmaceutical powders and inhaler design, Hickey said.

"The principle on which the technology is based involves mathematically interpreting the flow and dispersion properties of powdered medications and using a unique packaging system to deliver them to the lungs," he said. "The efficiency of delivery, even of very small doses, from the new inhaler should make it possible to use therapeutic approaches that were difficult to achieve in the past."

Oriel is among the latest companies spawned from Carolina research. Last year, Carolina research resulted in the formation of a dozen tax-paying, for-profit spin-off companies, officials said. That directly benefits the North Carolina economy by creating new jobs and helping improve the quality of life for state citizens.

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