University Startup Launches Gel to Treat Hypersensitivity

A startup known as Oral Antibacterials Inc. from the University of Toronto has developed UNO Gel to mitigate dentin sensitivity, which affects about 98% of all people at some point in their lives, according to the company. Founded by professor Anil Kishen, PhD, and graduate student Annie Shrestha, PhD, the startup will work with Germiphene Corporation to produce the gel.

The research began with earlier work by Kishen and Shrestha in developing BioSchell, a naturally derived bioactive nanoparticle polymer. When combined with the gel, these particles form a rapid, protective biocompatible layer on top of the dentin, effectively ending hypersensitive reactions.

After extensively researching the nanoparticles against biofilms and dentin stabilization, Shrestha believes the nanoparticle technology represents a new generation of technological solutions for oral health problems.

“Antibacterial nanoparticles are the way to go for developing novel therapeutic techniques,” Shrestha said. Kishen added that the commercialization of BioSchell with UNO Gel represents a win-win for patients as well as healthcare research.

“The scientific potential of my lab is geared towards meeting the needs of patients globally, providing effective treatments in the larger context,” he said. “UNO is just one reflection of the high-level motivation that prevails among Kishen lab team members and the strong support system within the University of Toronto’s research enterprises.”

UNO Gel’s commercialization was supported in part by the university’s Impact Centre. Also, the researchers’ earlier work was conducted as part of their National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada Engage grant.

“UNO is the most exciting product launched by Germiphene Corporation in a long time,” said George Botos, vice president of business development at Germiphene. “We really believe that the technology commercialized by Oral Antibacterials will create a new industry standard in terms of hypersensitivity treatment in the dental office.”