MUMBAI, India, July 24 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202611062523 A) filed by Geeta University on May 18, 2026, for Ph-Responsive Hydrogel Beads For Colon-Targeted Delivery Of 5- Fluorouracil.
Inventors include Naveen Deshwal; Dr. Seema Rohilla; and Ms. Twinkle.
The application for the patent was published on July 17, 2026, under issue no. 29/2026.
Abstract: The present invention provides pH-responsive hydrogel beads (100) for colon-targeted delivery of 5-fluorouracil. The beads are formulated using biocompatible and biodegradable polymers such as sodium alginate, pectin, chitosan and polyacrylic acid derivatives that remain completely stable and intact in the highly acidic environment of the stomach (pH 1.2) and small intestine (pH 6.0), thereby preventing any premature drug release. Upon reaching the colon, where the pH naturally rises to 6.8–7.5, the hydrogel matrix undergoes controlled swelling, diffusion and erosion, enabling site-specific and sustained release of 5-fluorouracil directly at the tumour site. The system effectively protects the drug from the harsh gastrointestinal conditions, significantly improves therapeutic efficacy against colon cancer and substantially reduces systemic toxicity and severe side effects commonly associated with conventional oral formulations. The formulation is simple, cost-effective, easy to manufacture and suitable for oral administration in capsule or tablet form, offering improved patient compliance and superior treatment outcomes compared to existing 5-fluorouracil therapies.
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