WO2005058407A1

WO2005058407A1 - A method and device for controlled release of chemicals and biological substances by photochemical reactions

Info

Publication number: WO2005058407A1
Application number: PCT/IL2004/001135
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Gordon; Shmuel GORDON
Original assignee: Inomicrotec Ltd
Priority date: 2003-12-16
Filing date: 2004-12-15
Publication date: 2005-06-30
Also published as: IL159401A0

Abstract

The present invention discloses a novel photochemical emitter (PCE) useful for releasing products of photochemical reactions to its surroundings. This implantable PCE comprising at least one chemical or biological matrix; said matrix is capable of releasing at least one product of photochemical reaction; and at least one light emitting device in communication with a sufficient power source; said emitter is adapted to emit light at a specific wave length and intensity so said photochemical reaction is provided and said photochemical product is obtained. The present invention also discloses a method for releasing products of photochemical reactions into the surroundings of a PCE device, comprising the step of emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix by means of at least one light emitting device, so said photochemical reaction is provided and a photochemical product is obtained.

Description

A METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLED RELEASE OF CHEMICALS AND BIOLOGICAL SUBSTANCES BY PHOTOCHEMICAL REACTIONS

FIELD OF THE EWENTION

The present invention generally relates to a method for controlled release of chemical and biological substances by photochemical reactions and to a device for said release. According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to an implantable device adapted for in vivo administration of drugs and medications.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Controlled release of chemical substances, such as in drug in situ administration systems, and the in vivo delivery of biological molecules is approaching accelerated research and development efforts. The administration of biologically active agents (e.g., a drug) to the body is usually characterized by a means adapted to answer one or both of the following requirements: to be delivered in response to a biofeedback mechanism; to be administrated to their target organs at relatively low volumes due to drugs' significant systematic toxicity when circulating in the blood. Hence, various implantable medical devices for in vivo drug delivery were disclosed in the art. One such technology is an implantable infusion pump, comprising a pressurized drug reservoir and means for fluid flow control. These systems are not capable of accurately controlling the dosage of drugs delivered to the patient.

Another approach is an apparatus containing two compartments separated by a moveable partition, such as the implantable device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,876,741 to Ron et al. These systems are designed in such a manner that volume expansion of a composition located in one compartment causes a biologically active compound located in the second compartment to be discharged into the biological environment through the passageway. A similar approach, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,485,462 to Kriesel, presents an implantable fluid delivery device, containing a heat responsive polymer gel material that, upon being heated by a heating coil, functions as an internal energy source for expelling the medicinal fluids from the device.

Another drug delivery system is described in U.S. Patents. No. 5,797,898, 6,123,861 and 6,551,838 to Santini, Jr. et al. These devices comprise switches provided on a microchip to control the delivery of drugs or liquid chemicals from reservoirs having reservoir caps or barriers that actively or passively disintegrate. The permeability of such a barrier layer solely by molecules or energy is controlled by applying a stimulus such as an electric field or current, magnetic field, change in pH, or by thermal, photochemical, chemical, electrochemical, or mechanical means. This 'Slide Door' approach is suitable only for a few systems. Moreover, the quanta of released drugs or liquid chemicals is predetermined in the manufacturing process, and is definitively limited to the volume of the reservoir compartment. Extended external dimensions thus characterize this implant, whereat a compact low volume implant, containing a fast reacting, solid-based, high accuracy chemical release is a long felt need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is hence one object of the present invention to provide a cost- effective photochemical emitter (PCE) useful for releasing products of photochemical reactions to its surroundings. This PCE is essentially comprised of (a) at least one chemical or biological matrix; said matrix is capable of releasing at least one product of photochemical reaction; and (b), at least one light emitting device in communication with a sufficient power source; said emitter is adapted to emit light at a specific wave length and intensity, thus said photochemical reaction is provided and said photochemical product is obtained.

The aforementioned PCE may additionally comprise one or more modules selected from a programmable chemical selection, adapted to set activation signals to specific light emitters within the PCE; a programmable chemical release timer, adapted to load chemical release schedules; a chemical release message processor, adapted to decode the received spectral signal into a series of control and data bits, so a multi chemical and multi profile release pattern is obtained; at least one thin film rechargeable energy cell, providing an energy source; a radio frequency receiver; adapted to convert low-power high-frequency signals into base-band signals; a thin-film antenna (e.g., a thin-film printed antenna); adapted to receive a weak electro-magnetic waves, and translate them into electric radio frequency signals or any combination thereof.

The PCE defined above may comprise a stack of accessories and auxiliaries selected from the group of a programmable chemical selection; programmable chemical release timer; a chemical release message processor; a thin film rechargeable energy cell; a radio frequency receiver; a thin-film antenna or any combination thereof It is in the scope of the present invention wherein the light emitting devices emits ultraviolet light; visible light; infrared radiation or any combination thereof.

It is further in the scope of the present invention wherein the aforementioned PCE comprises at least one sensor. This sensor may be adapted to determine one or more environmental inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters in such a manner that correlating outputs or reactions are provided. Alternatively; said sensor may be adapted to determine one or more physiological inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters in such a manner that correlating outputs or reactions are provided. The inputs are potentially determined adjacent to the PCE, in any remote location or in combination thereof The PCE hereto-defined may hence be adapted to a feedback operational mode; wherein the releasing parameters of the photochemical reaction products are in correlation with the obtained inputs. The releasing parameters may be selected from any of the group of release rate or flux; release onset or offset; type, number, location or identity of the light emitting device or devices; light wavelength and/or light intensity. At least one detector may be in communication with an additional one or more implanted PCEs. The sensor may thus be in inline, offline and/or mediated communication with the PCE. Alternatively or additionally, the said PCE may additionally comprise an interface adapted for a remote operation; wherein the said PCE's operation is regulated by at least one remote user, processor, sensor or any combination thereof.

It is another object of the present invention to present an implantable PCE. Hence, it is in the scope of the present invention wherein the photochemical product is adapted for in vivo administration of drugs and medications. Moreover, the photochemical product may be adapted for in vivo administration of drugs and medications and said administration may be provided as a feedback to predetermined physiological parameters.

It is yet another object of the present invention to present a useful method for releasing products of photochemical reactions into the surroundings of a PCE device. This method comprises emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix by means of at least one light emitting device, so said photochemical reaction is provided and a photochemical product is obtained. This method may be also adapted for in vivo administration of photochemical products by means of an implantable PCE. Alternatively, the method may be adapted for administration of photochemical products by feedback by means of an implantable PCE , additionally comprising the steps of (a) obtaining a plurality of physiological inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters by means of at least one sensor; (b) providing for a plurality of correlated output signals; and (c) emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix so the administration of photochemical product is obtained; in such a manner that that said administration is provided in correlation to said predetermined physiological parameters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be implemented in practice, a plurality of embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which

figure 1 schematically illustrates the lateral and top view of the photochemical emitter (PCE) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprising inter alia solid chemical block and a UV light source matrix;

figure 2 schematically illustrates the chemical substrate, as viewed by the UV source matrix; figure 3 schematically illustrates the Programmable Chemical Selection (PCS) which is programmed to set activation signals to specific UV cells within the PCE, depending on the chemical code numbers in its input;

figure 4 schematically illustrates the Programmable Chemical Release Timer (PCRT), which enables loading of complex chemical release schedules;

figure 5 schematically illustrates the Chemical Release Message Processor (CRMP) responsible for decoding the received spectral signal into a series of control and data bits, enabling multi chemical and multi profile release pattern;

figure 6 schematically illustrates the Thin Film Rechargeable Energy Cell (TFREC); which is an optional energy source;

figure 7 schematically illustrates the Radio Frequency Receiver/Transmitter of the RFRP, responsible for converting low-power high-frequency signals into base-band signals entering the Processor and converting- up base-band signals to transmittable RF signals;

figure 8 schematically illustrates a thin-film Antenna, used to receive weak electromagnetic waves, translate them into electric radio frequency signals and transmit the same;

figure 9 schematically illustrates the principle of a thin-film printed antenna pattern;

figure 10 schematically illustrates the integration of the antenna, receiver, processor and thin-film energy cell functions;

figure 11 schematically illustrates one possible approach to integrating the chemical layer, the light source layer and the programmable chemical select layer; these subunits are adapted to be in a cascade;

figure 12 schematically illustrates the cascaded configuration of the PCE based units of figure 11, and the leading receiver cell, connected using a possible flexible printed conductor; and, figure 13 schematically illustrates a flexible tube, housing and protecting the cascade and the surrounding tissue from negative interaction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of the present invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of said invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, will remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide a method for controlled release of chemical and biological substances by photochemical reactions and a device adapted for said purpose.

The term 'photochemical emitter', denoted hereto as PCE, generally refers' according to the present invention' to any device, which is adapted to release products of photochemical reactions to its surroundings. This PCE is schematically comprised of at least one chemical or biological matrix and at least one light-emitting device. The said matrix is capable of releasing at least one product of photochemical reaction. The said light-emitting device is in communication with a sufficient power source; and is further adapted to emit light at a specific wave length and intensity so said photochemical reaction is provided and said photochemical product is obtained. The term 'PCE' also refers according to the present invention to any device as defined above, further adapted for either integrated or non-integrated mode of operation. Said PCE may thus be a standalone product or an ingredient of a communicated assembly or mechanism. This device may be further adapted to indoor or outdoor operation; to be implanted in other system or systems, to be implanted in living bodies, such as the human body or to be adapted to any topical or cosmetic uses. Said device may be operated by any known means, e.g., remote control, feedback, continuous action, discontinuous action, delayed operational mode etc.

Reference is made now to figure 1 , illustrating one embodiment of the present invention wherein the photochemical emitter (PCE, 100) is schematically described. The PCE is adapted to emit a UV light of a specific spectra range over a predetermined chemical or biological substrate, or over a plurality of those substrates. It is well in the scope of the present invention wherein said emitter is in communication with a plurality of optional accessories, such as a wireless remote control auxiliary, a self thin-film energy source etc.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, said PCE comprises a miniature light emitting assembly (6). This assembly is preferably comprised of an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and may be selected from blue light-emitting gallium nitride (GaN) LED; a UV-emitting LED; a UV-emitting LED additionally comprising a converter material or device for converting said UV light into a visible spectral range; a visible LED-phosphor, LEDs providing a relatively high-energy photon from a blue LED in such a manner that phosphorescence is obtained in a number of materials; or any combination thereof.

Reference is still made to figure 1, presenting a top view of a micro LED array, where the miniature light emitting assembly (6) is a sapphire with n X -doped GaN layers. Photolithographic and microelectronic metal deposition methods are used to pattern metal conductors (7) and metal bonding pads (9). All «-pads of the LEDs are arranged on the top and bottom edge of the diode matrix and designated diode column numbers (8), and all ^-pads of the diodes could be arranged on the left and right edges of the matrix designated row numbers. This column/row addressing technique enables the illumination of one or multiple LEDs simultaneously.

Still referring to figure 1, a cross section of one embodiment of a PCE (100) is presented in a perspective view. This PCE is comprised of a base portion with the miniature light emitting assembly (6) as defined above, and an upper portion (1). Said base portion is comprised of a base member (6A) and the array of LEDs (6B), potentially covered by means of a transparent glass top (4). On top of said LEDs (6B) and/or the glass top (4), a chemical or biological matrix (1) is located. Said sandwich-like packaging (100) is affixed firmly by reversible or irreversible means, comprising one or more mechanical fastening members, e.g., screws, zips, lockable reinforcement devices etc, securing the package through the continuous bore (10A) and (10B). Alternatively or additionally, it is acknowledged in this respect that the packaging my be secured by chemical means, such as glues etc. Moreover, a plurality of fastening auxiliaries such as attachments (5) is possibly used. It is in the scope of the present invention wherein said auxiliaries are selected in a non limiting manner from magnets, magnetic films or ferromagnetic thin films located at the rim of the device. Alternatively, for some applications, flexible tubing, firmly gripping chemical substrate and LED matrix may be used.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, controlling and/or processing means are further attached to the aforementioned PCE (100). Hence for example, a Ball Grid Array (BGA), which is preferably located adjacent to base (6A), enables soldering to standard electronic Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). As was set forth above, it is also in the scope of the present invention wherein the aforementioned PCE additionally comprises means for remote control, timing abilities, variable energy sources, encoding facilities etc. These means are described in the art and most of them are commercially available, so they fit to the hereto-defined PCE with no intensive alterations.

It is acknowledged in this respect that the aforementioned chemical or biological matrix (10) may be selected from any matrix which is comprised of at least one biological, non- biological, organic, inorganic composition, or a combination of any of these compositions or mixtures. Said matrix is either in a continuous, discontinuous form or any combination thereof, and is either homogenous or heterogeneous. It may further be possessed of either isotropic or anisotropy characteristics. This matrix may be comprised of monomers, polymers or any combination thereof. According to one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the said matrix is sensitive to a light emitted by any internal or external source at a predetermined range and intensity in such a manner that said light causes the matrix to release, activate or to trigger at least one biological or chemical species, which is further transferred actively or diffused passively to a remote target location. Said release, activation or triggering of the said species is provided in a simultaneous on-line manner and/or in a delayed off-line manner; in vivo, ex vivo, in vitro, in situ or ex situ or any combination thereof. For example, an S-S enriched matrix is useful for releasing sulfur containing active agents in response to a sufficient light emission. Another example is an N-N enriched matrix. It is further in the scope of the present invention wherein the released agent was previously immobilized, encapsulated or entrapped into the said matrix. Additionally or alternatively, the released agent was adsorbed or affixed onto the surface of the matrix.

It is also well in the scope of the present invention wherein a plurality of chemical agents or biological agents are immobilized by methods known in the art into and/or onto a supporting matrix, wherein a light is emitted in a predetermined manner and hence selectively controls the release of a specific agent. It also controls the specific location on the matrix wherein the agent begins to be released and further regulates the kinetics of its release.

An example is provided in a non limiting manner, wherein agents of two different species are absorbed: one is anchored by means of forming N-N bonds with the supporting matrix and the other is immobilized by means of forming S-S bonds with said matrix. By emitting a light beam effective for breaking those N-N bonds, said first agent is subsequently desorbed from the bulk of the matrix, and slowly released to the surroundings. Additionally or alternatively, by emitting a different light beam effective for breaking S-S bonds, said second agent is rapidly desorbed from the said matrix surface in such a manner that a large initial concentration is provided. A hormone or hormone-like regulating agent is suitable for such an immobilization by said N-N bonds; wherein a biocide (e.g., bactericide, antibiotics, fungicide) is especially useful for being immobilized by said S-S adsorbing bonds.

The aforementioned matrix may be selected from a bulk material; a conglomerate, a mosaic or a multi-laminar structure of various ingredients; and/or a film, preferably a thin film; e.g., a film characterized by an average thickness of micrometers or less. Many thin films are possible, such as wafer sheet-like structures.

It is acknowledged in this respect that the aforementioned PCE (100) is comprised of a plurality of N thin mosaics, wherein N is an integer number equal to one or more; each of which is characterized by a continuous array of different matrices. Most preferably, a correlation is made between the locations of the light emitting devices (e.g., LEDs) and the location of said thin matrices, in such a manner that the light is effectively illuminated on a significant portion of the matrix, and/or in such a manner that the matrix is illuminated by the proper light emitting device; at the proper light wavelength -.

It is further acknowledged in this respect that the aforementioned PCE (100) is characterized by a laminar structure, wherein a base portion comprises two or more faces. Each face comprises its own light emitting devices, adapted to emit light towards an adjacent matrix. Referring to the above-mentioned example, a coin-like PCE is provided, one face comprising an S-S bonded matrix and the other face comprising an N-N bonded matrix in such a manner that the first light-emitting device is powered to release the biocide, and vice versa, the second light-emitting device is used to release the hormonelike regulating agent,.

Reference is made now to Fig. 2., presenting a perspective view of the aforementioned wafer-like matrix (2). Said wafer is possibly made utilizing a multiple set of lithography masks with a step-and -repeat square pattern. -. The optional alignment bore (3), located at the center of each chip, is either laser drilled or photo cleaved.

It is also in the scope of the present invention wherein these thin films are provided on a silicon wafer or other suitable substrate. These films can then be patterned using photolithographic techniques and suitable etching techniques. Suitable materials include silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, polycrystalline silicon etc.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a novel Programmable Chemical Selection (i.e., PCS) option is hereto provided. It enables the user to program and re-program predetermined characterizations and thus to enable a specific release rate and substance combination; to combine such release with a given operating code number etc. Reference is made now to figure 3, presenting a PCS which is programmed to set activation signals to specific UV cells within the PCE, depending on the chemical code numbers in its input. The chemical substrate surface may exhibit a multiple of chemical sites. Each site could then be sub-divided into smaller sites according to the minimum dose requiring release. Each site is then designated by a code number. Activating said code number is adapted to set all rows and column LEDs in that site, to the "on" state. This code is programmed into a programmable device; one of which may be a standard Electronically Programmable Logic Device (i.e., EPLD), referenced by ALTERA Classic EPLDs.

The signals setting rows and columns to "on" are captured in a row/column standard logic latch device. This enables the decoding serial processing of multiple chemical sights activation. The actual activation and release will be triggered at the precise timing required.

The triggered row/column signal feeds into current driving transistors, able to supply the LED matrix with the variable current required. This logic/current handshake enables significant power saving in the digital circuitry, through the use of micro-power logic.

Bond pads are designed at the periphery of the PCS, enabling external sidewall connections to further options of the PCE, or connections to a BGA, should no further options be required.

Reference is made now to figure 4, schematically illustrating the Programmable Chemical Release Timer (PCRT, 18), which enables loading of complex chemical release schedules. The PCRT enables the user to program the PCE to release chemicals at predetermined intervals ranging from seconds to years. A non-limiting example of such a timer is based on a digital oscillator utilizing a resistor - capacitor (i.e., RC) time constant, such as the referenced LM555 data sheet. Several counters may then be dedicated to counting seconds, minutes, hours, days and weeks. Several more counters, may be programmed, according to user settings, for as many chemical release cycles required. Typical counter circuitry is described in reference "Binary Counter with Asynchronous Clear".

Reference is made now to figure 5, schematically illustrating the Chemical Release Message Processor (CRMP, 16) responsible for decoding the received spectral signal into a series of control and data bits, enabling a multi chemical and multi profile release pattern. The processor enables the user to use a composition of complex chemical release profiles, for multi chemical substrate. The processor is adapted to receive a series of information bits including the unique Implant ID number, the number of dose cycles, the chemicals released in each dose, the duration release of each chemical and the amount released.

Prior to storing the programmed dose cycles, the processor is adapted to transmit the instructions to the RF Transceiver, for confirmation. The processor may perform additional functions such as control and report, according to specific application requirements.

Reference is made now to figure 6, schematically illustrating the Thin Film Rechargeable Energy Cell (i.e., TFREC, 60); which is an optional energy source. The default energy source is adapted to be an implanted lithium energy cell with connecting leads to the PCE and built-in short-circuit protection.

A variation to this may be a rechargeable lithium battery, integrated with a charging unit. The charger unit receives energy from a coil transmitter external to the body. The energy cell may be implanted under the skin, similarly to a pacemaker. However, the TFREC is an option that depends heavily on work done on an invention of an implanted charger unit, not available to date. The TFREC technology is described in the art and may be used with no significant alternations. The cathode film (21), the electrolyte film (22) and the anode (23) are all schematically illustrated in figure 6.

Reference is made now to figure 7, schematically illustrating the Radio Frequency Transceiver (70) of the RFRP, responsible for bi-directional conversion of low-power high-frequency signals into base-band signals entering the Processor. The transceiver's main function is to enable reliable wireless transmission of the chemical release cycles from an external controller into the PCE implanted near the therapy-requiring organ of the human body. The aforementioned transceiver would suffice for most utilizations. Nevertheless, it is acknowledged in this respect that due to increasing RF signals surrounding us, unintentional trigger of the activation of the PCE may occur. To minimize this hazard, the transceiver may be adapted to request confirmation and/or verification for each chemical or biological release programming session.

Both receive and transmit functions adapted for implant devices have been realized at various frequency bands, modulation schemes and signal bandwidth. One of the primary concerns is the power consumption of the transceiver. It is acknowledged in this respect that for a frequent and high dosage chemical release, the transceiver may consume a high percentage of the total PCE's power requirements. Higher power consumption impacts the battery size, location and lifetime span between replacements. The least power- consuming transceiver configuration, would be the Amplitude Shift Keying (i.e., ASK) whereby transmitted RF energy would represent a logic "1" and no RF would be a logic "0". Assuming an equal statistical distribution of ones and zeros, half the time the transmitter is off, saving power. The transceiver circuitry is very simple, and therefore compact and low cost.

It is also acknowledged in this respect that RF wireless devices may operate in high cost protected licensed RF bands or non-licensed "free-to-all" RF bands. The non-licensed bands are increasingly dense in RF applications, and therefore increasingly vulnerable to mutual interference. The interference is mostly interpreted as high-level noise. In order to extract signals equal to or lower than the received noise, the information data bits are multiplied by a known coding sequence, thereby increasing signal bandwidth and hence denoted in the term spread-spectrum. The received signal is multiplied by the same code, thereby creating a processing gain only for the known code signals and not for the general noise signals. This gain differentiates the information signal from the noise.

Many RF transceiver chips are commercially available for the ASK or the coded spread spectrum architectures and their variations, Phase Shift Keying (i.e., PSK) and Frequency Shift Keying (i.e., FSK). Selecting the most suitable available will be done individually for each application of the PCE.

Reference is made now to figure 8, schematically illustrating a thin-film Antenna, used to receive weak electro-magnetic waves, and translate them into electric radio frequency signals. The antenna (31) is usually a printed conductor proportional in length to the wireless frequency band chosen for the PCE application. The printed antenna is on the outward facing surface of the chip, enabling electro-magnetic signal reception on the actual conductor side. Reference is made now to figure 9, schematically illustrating the principle of a thin-film printed antenna pattern. Printing the antenna (31) on a substrate is one useful option. In applications utilizing low frequency bands, it may be more practical to attach a coated antenna wire to the PCE and fold the antenna wire alongside the implanted components.

Reference is made now to figure 10, schematically illustrating one embodiment adapted to integrate antenna, receiver, processor and thin-film energy cell functions in one device (1000). This configuration is successfully adapted to minimize the components adjacent to the attended organ. The device according to this embodiment is hence comprised of an antenna (35), an RFTR (26), a TFREC (20), a PCRT (18) and a CRMP (16).

Reference is made now to figure 11, schematically illustrating another embodiment of the present invention, wherein chemical or biological thin layer, light source layer and programmable chemical select layer are integrated in one possible cascade. The transceiver and energy source are potentially separated from the PCE, the chemical release package is adapted to include a suitable chemical substrate (1), UV diode matrix (6) etc.

Reference is made now to figure 12, schematically illustrating the cascaded configuration of the PCE cells and the leading receiver cell, connected via flexible printed conductors. Here for example, the chemical release is provided in a relatively narrow, long and curved enclosure, comprising a multiple of PCE's (1), which are interconnected in a cascade formation with a standard flexible multi conductor substrate (40), forming a tree structure. PCEs are interconnected to a single transceiver, processor and energy unit (35).

It is also in the scope of the present invention wherein the PCE or the PCE cascade or any of the photochemical emitter defined or described above is comprised of at least one detector. The term 'detector' refers in the present invention to any sensor, or other detecting means adapted to analyze, screen, acquiring images, physiological or environmental parameters, including physical (e.g., temperature, RGB values, radiation etc), chemical, biological or medical quantitive or qualitive inputs. The aforementioned detector may be also in communication with one or more additional implanted PCEs and/or with external devices, adapted to process said inputs to correlated outputs, and then to deliver said outputs towards one or more PCEs.

It is also in the scope of the present invention wherein said PCE is adapted to provide for a feedback operational mode; wherein the releasing parameters of the photochemical reaction products or any other measurable parameter, are in correlation with the obtained physiological or environmental inputs. It is acknowledged in this respect that at least a portion of said releasing parameters or feasibly measurable parameters, are selected in a non limiting manner from any of the reactions to the released substance or the group of the rate of said release or its flux; release onset or offset; the type, number, location or identity of the light emitting device or devices; light wavelength and/or light intensity. It is further acknowledged that the aforementioned detector may also be in communication with one or more additional implanted PCEs, so a communication network is provided comprising one or more detectors and one or more PCEs. This communication is provided by means known in the art inline, offline and/or in a mediated manner, e.g., by a supporting means of a transmitter, operator, processor etc., wherein said means are integrated or non- integrated with one or more of said PCEs or detectors.

As set forth above, the present invention relates to a method for releasing products of photochemical reactions into the surroundings of a PCE device. This method comprises emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix by means of at least one light emitting device, so said photochemical reaction is provided and a photochemical product is obtained. Additionally or alternatively, the said method is especially useful for administrating photochemical products by feedback means of an implantable PCE 1. This method additionally comprises the three steps of (a) obtaining a plurality of either environmental or physiological inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters by means of at least one sensor; (b) providing for a plurality of correlated output signals; and then (c) emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix so the administration of photochemical product is obtained; in such a manner that that said administration is provided in correlation to said predetermined physiological or environmental parameters. Reference is made now to figure 13, schematically illustrating a flexible tube, housing and protecting the cascade and the surrounding tissue from negative interactions. Hence, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the PCE aforementioned tree configuration is housed in a highly flexible, specifically punctured tube or hose (45), designed to assist in applying force on both ends of each PCE, thereby forcing the released chemical molecules, out through a plurality of holes (see 46 for example). The elasticity constant and the size of the tube relative to the PCE, determine the force at which the chemical molecules are propelled out.

It is lastly in the scope of the present invention wherein said flexible housing is biocompatible, flexible and adapted to be impermeable, isolated and/or sealed to any liquids of the body. It is acknowledged in this respect that said flexible housing is adapted to provide enhanced diffusion of the photochemical product. Hence for example, it is comprised of passive transferring means, such as holes, prosive portions, lipophilic or hydrophilic portions, selective membranes etc; and/or active transferring means, such as pumps, impellers, busters etc.

Claims

1. A photochemical emitter (PCE) useful for releasing products of photochemical reactions to its surroundings, comprising; a. at least one chemical or biological matrix; said matrix is capable of releasing at least one product of photochemical reaction; and, b. at least one light emitting device in communication with a sufficient power source; said emitter is adapted to emit light at a specific wave length and intensity so said photochemical reaction is provided and said photochemical product is obtained.

2. The PCE according to claim 1, additionally comprising a programmable chemical selection, adapted to set activation signals to specific light emitters within the PCE.

3. The PCE according to claim 1, additionally comprising a programmable chemical release timer, adapted to load chemical release schedules.

4. The PCE according to claim 1, additionally comprising a chemical release message processor, adapted for decoding the received spectral signal into a series of control and data bits, so a multi chemical and multi profile release pattern is obtained.

5. The PCE according to claim 1, additionally comprising at least one thin film rechargeable energy cell, providing an energy source.

6. The PCE according to claim 1, additionally comprising a radio frequency receiver; adapted for converting low-power high-frequency signals into base-band signals.

7. The PCE according to claim 1, additionally comprising a thin-film antenna; adapted for receiving weak electro -magnetic waves, and translating them into electric radio frequency signals.

8. The PCE according to claim 7, wherein the antenna is a thin-film printed antenna.

9. The PCE according to claim 1, comprising a stack of accessories and auxiliaries selected from the group of a programmable chemical selection; programmable chemical release timer; a chemical release message processor; a thin film rechargeable energy cell; a radio frequency receiver; a thin-film antenna or any combination thereof.

10. The PCE according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting devices emits ultraviolet light.

11. The PCE according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting devices emits visible light.

12. The PCE according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting devices emits infrared radiation.

13. The PCE as defined in claim 1 or in any of its dependent claims, additionally comprising at least one sensor.

14. The PCE according to claim 13, wherein the sensor is adapted to determine one or more environmental inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters in such a manner that correlating outputs or reactions are provided.

15. The PCE according to claim 13, wherein the sensor is adapted to determine one or more physiological inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters in such a manner that correlating outputs or reactions are provided.

16. The PCE according to any of claims 14 or 15, wherein the inputs are determined adjacent to the PCE, in any remote location or in combination thereof.

17. The PCE according to any of claims 14 or 15, adapted to a feedback operational mode; wherein the releasing parameters of the photochemical reaction products are in correlation with the obtained inputs.

18. The PCE according to claim 17, wherein the releasing parameters are selected from any of the group of release rate or flux; release onset or offset; type, number, location or identity of the light emitting device or devices; light wavelength and/or light intensity.

19. The PCE according to claim 17, wherein the at least one detector is in communication with one or more additional implanted PCEs.

20. The PCE according to claim 13; wherein the sensor is in inline, offline and/or mediated communication with the PCE.

21. The PCE as defined in claim 1 or in any of its dependent claims, additionally comprising an interface adapted for remote operation; wherein the said PCE's operation is regulated by at least one remote user, processor, sensor or any combination thereof.

22. An implantable PCE as defined in claim 1 or in any of its dependent claims.

23. The implantable PCE according to claim 22, wherein the photochemical product is adapted for in vivo administration of drugs and medications.

24. The implantable PCE according to claim 22, wherein the photochemical product is adapted for in vivo administration of drugs and medications and further wherein said administration is provided as a feedback to predetermined physiological parameters.

25. A method for releasing products of photochemical reactions into the surroundings of a PCE device, comprising the step of emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix by means of at least one light emitting device, so said photochemical reaction is provided and a photochemical product is obtained.

26. The method according to claim 25, adapted for in vivo administration of photochemical products by means of an implantable PCE.

27. The method according to claim 25, adapted for administration of photochemical products by feedback means of an implantable PCE, additionally comprising the steps of; a. obtaining a plurality of physiological inputs selected from physical, chemical and/or biological parameters by means of at least one sensor; b. providing for a plurality of correlated output signals; c. emitting light of a specific wave length and intensity over a biological or chemical matrix so the administration of photochemical product is obtained; in such a manner that that said administration is provided in correlation to said predetermined physiological parameters.