Patent Picks—Pawpaw Anti-irritant, Degradation Sensor, Fenugreek Saponins and More

By: Rachel L. Grabenhofer

Posted: July 10, 2012

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Process for the extraction of furostanolic saponins from fenugreek seeds
US Patent 8217165
Publication date: July 10, 2012
Inventors: PK Goel

According to the inventor on this patent, there is growing interest in plant natural products such as saponins since they have a wide range of applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food and other industries. An example of plant secondary metabolites are saponins, which have the ability to lower surface tension, in addition to flavoring, sweetening, antioxidant, foaming, complexing, sequestration, anticarcinogenic and antimicrobial properties.

Thus, described by this patent is a novel, commercially viable process for the extraction of high purity (> 70%) bioactive furostanolic saponins including protodioscin (> 30%) from the seeds of fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum). This process essentially comprises the steps of powdering of the natural material, followed by a first extraction, an ion-exchange chromatographic purification, a second extraction using a novel composite solvent, and drying of the product under defined conditions. The entire process is carried out essentially at a neutral pH and temperatures of less than 80°C.

Controlled release of biologically active compounds
US Patent 8217134
Publication date: July 10, 2012
Assignee: Bezwada Biomedical LLC

The present invention relates to biodegradable polymers, e.g., polyesters and polyester amides, derived from functionalized biologically active compounds that can provide the site-specific delivery of bioactive compounds upon biodegradation in a controlled manner. By varying the functionalizing moiety or combination of moieties, the rate of biodegradation may be varied over a period of time.