Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and Northwestern University have invented a new implantable drug delivery device.

Scientists, Yamin Zhang, Ph.D., and Colin Franz, MD, Ph.D. from Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and John Rogers, Ph.D. from Northwestern University, have joined together to create the first novel implantable drug delivery device that is activated by external light sources of varying wavelengths. The device does not rely on electronics and is unique as it is completely absorbable by the body.

To test the innovative technology, it was implanted into rats. The device contained three drug reservoirs, each holding lidocaine. To trigger the nerve-pain-blocking drug, three LEDs were placed over the site the device had been implanted. As a result of further tests, the scientists discovered there was significant pain relief due to the treatment which is a promising development for rehabilitation alternatives.

Northwestern University’s John Rogers, PhD. said “We found this approach to be an effective, safe, and non-addictive alternative to systemically delivered pain medications,”