Invention:
This technology is an orally administered compound that identifies a compromised gastrointestinal tract, especially in diseases that cause "leaks" in to the blood. If the GI tract is compromised, the compound will be found in the urine and a simple urinalysis can be completed. If the individual is healthy the compound will be expelled in the feces.
Background:
In the United States between 60 and 70 million people suffer from digestive diseases including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and gastric cancers. While a stool sample can be used to determine if there is abnormal bacteria or bleeding in the gut, the standard of diagnostic for non-pathogenic gastrointestinal tract disorders remains endoscopies, which are expensive and invasive procedures. Because of this, new means of identifying and diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders are still needed.
Applications:
- Gastrointestinal tract disease diagnostics
- Drug delivery to the gastrointestinal tract
Advantages:
- Easy to use
- Eliminated in urine
- Low-cost
- Non-invasive
