Hydronovo
Overview
Hydronovo is developing an innovative injectable hydrogel designed to regenerate damaged salivary gland tissue through neurogenic stimulation of resident stem cells. This therapy aims to address xerostomia, or chronic dry mouth, a condition affecting over 8 million people in the U.S. alone.
The Issue
Xerostomia, or chronic dry mouth, occurs when the salivary glands fail to produce sufficient saliva due to gland degeneration. It severely diminishes quality of life, causing pain, difficulty speaking and eating, sleep disruption, and a wide range of oral and digestive complications. Current treatments offer only temporary symptom relief and do not restore gland function. There is a critical unmet need for therapies that address the root cause of this condition, particularly in patients who develop xerostomia after radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.
Approach
Hydronovo’s solution is a first-of-its-kind hydrogel that stimulates the regeneration of stem cells in the salivary glands. By activating receptors and supporting nerve supply, the hydrogel promotes long-term restoration of salivary gland function. The approach is designed to restore natural saliva production, improving patients’ oral health and quality of life.
MTM Student Engagement
MTM students bring cross-disciplinary expertise to support Hydronovo across critical areas: Manufacturing, Nonclinical Research, Clinical/Commercialization Strategy, and Regulatory Pathways. Their involvement ensures that this innovative therapy can navigate the challenges of clinical development and market introduction, bringing it closer to patients in need.
Project Brief
