The sketch illustrates the profound molecular re-

1. Unique Polymeric Materials by Novel ProcessesJoseph P. Kennedy, The University of Akron DMR-0243314 Intellectual Merit: We have created and protected by US patents Amphiphilic Conetworks (APCN), i.e., two-component networks of covalently interconnected hydrophilic/hydrophobic phases of cocontinuous morphology; these unique constructs swell both in water and hydrocarbons, and respond to changes in the medium by morphological isomerization (“smart” networks). The sketch illustrates the profound molecular re- organization an APCN (comprising PEG and PDMS segments) upon contact with three media, i.e., a common, a hydrophilic, and a hydrophobic solvent. Membranes created by precision synthesis of APCNs may be used as immunoisolatory devices to correct diabetes (see next slide). For details see: G. Erdodi and J. P. Kennedy, Prog. Polym. Sci., 31 (2006) 1-18.

2. DIACURE Inc. is the name of the company created to exploit the basic science/technology of Amphiphilic Conetworks developed by the Kennedy group at The University of Akron with NSF financial help. The aim of DIACURE is to produce a bioartificial pancreas (BAP) to correct diabetes. The BAP will consist of insulin-producing pig pancreatic cells encapsulated in a precision synthesized semipermeable amphiphilic conetwork membrane, which allows the in-diffusion of glucose and nutrient into, and out-diffusion of insulin and wastes from the device, but prevents the onslaught of the host’s (human) immune system upon the protected live cells. The BAP is in fact a glucose-sensor/insulin-delivery device that will be implanted for 6-12 months into diabetics and will produce the appropriate amount of insulin. Thus diabetics will not need to monitor their blood glucose level and self-administering of insulin becomes unnecessary.