83 innovations from Bar-Ilan University, available for licensing, co-investment, or spin-out through BIRAD.
Naveh Doron
A computational spectrometer system based on a voltage-tunable GeSe-InSe heterojunction device that addresses nonlinear photoresponses through piecewise linearization using classification and hierarchical clustering models for accurate spectral reconstruction.
Asaf Albo
In this study we present an analysis of a novel practical m-plane GaN three and two quantum well terahertz quantum cascade lasers (THz QCLs) using Non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF). We examined the performance of this unique designs, exhibiting their capabilities for high-temperature operation and extended Terahertz frequency coverage. For the three quantum well structure, at low temperatures, a peak gain of 87 cm-1 was observed, which decreased to ~ 24 cm-1 at 300 K, still above the expected losses. The research shows lasing at ~6 THz, outperforming standard GaAs THz-QCLs’ frequency coverage. This work provides valuable insights into the development of advanced GaN-based THz QCLs with above room temperature performance and expanded frequency coverage, bridging the gap in Terahertz technology.
Margel Shlomo
Preparation and use of free, entrapped, and surface bound hollow non-functional and functional SiO2 microparticles with controlled porosity for various applications (liquid solidification, superhydrophobic, self-cleaning, acceleration sensors, cosmetics, food, encapsulation, controlled release in liquid and gas phase, plastics, etc.)
Shor Joseph
This circuit measures internal transistor parameters.
Mandel Yossi
The invention relates to novel proteinoid-based nanocapsules (NCs) designed for non-invasive drug delivery to the retina via topical administration (eye drops). The nanocapsules are synthesized from tailored amino acid–based polymers that self-assemble into hollow nano-sized particles capable of encapsulating therapeutic agents. These biodegradable, non-toxic, and customizable nanocapsules enable penetration across ocular barriers and delivery of drugs to posterior eye tissues, including the retina and choroid, thereby potentially replacing invasive intravitreal injections. The invention includes specific proteinoid compositions optimized for enhanced retinal penetration, safety, and drug-loading capacity.
Yavits Leonid
Modern computer chips are increasingly stacked in advanced 2.5D/3D dense packages, making it impossible to test individual layers for radiation damage in space. Our invention embeds tiny memory-based sensors directly inside the chip package. These sensors simultaneously detect multiple types of radiation damage through a single, simple measurement. A built-in AI mechanism analyzes the sensor data and automatically reconfigures the system to keep it operational, potentially trading performance for survival as radiation accumulates. This allows ordinary commercial chips to operate reliably in space without expensive space-grade components.
Strelniker Yakov
We predicted that the negative permittivity can be used for attraction of like charged particles instead of repulsion. This can lead to creation of electron-electron pairs similar to Cooper pairs (with possibilities to reach superconductivity at room temperature). This phenomenon can be used also for nucleus-nucleus pairing with possibilities of low energy nuclear fusion. Negative values of permittivity we propose to achieve due to the localized surface plasmon resonances in metamaterials. These resonance frequencies can be varied over a wide range by application of static magnetic or electric fields.
Byk Gerardo
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a leading cause of incurable genetic blindness. Currently retinal gene therapies are mostly based on adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors that are: i) limited in cargo size, limiting the delivery of large genes (e.g. MYO7A, a common cause for Usher 1B syndromic RP); ii) induce immune responses that may damage the retina, lower gene expression and preclude repeated treatment; iii) injected subretinally, treating a limited area, and associated with risks of retinal detachment and chorioretinal atrophy. Transient transfection in primary human non-dividing cells remains inefficient due to poor nuclear uptake and transient gene expression, typically lasting only 24–96 hours. Conventional methods like lipofection and electroporation often cause cytotoxicity and immune activation, reducing cell viability and reproducibility. Improved delivery systems are needed to overcome these barriers and achieve safe, targeted, and sustained transgene expression. We developed biodegradable nanohydrogels (NHGs) that form complexes with DNA. The new NHGs and their DNA complexes are devoid of cell toxicity, which, together with their tuned sizes, makes them potential tools for gene delivery and foreign protein expression. We demonstrate that these NHGs can be utilized to deliver genes to express foreign proteins in non-dividing human iPSC-retinal pigment epithelium cells, which are notoriously difficult to transfect. Controlling for DNA:NHG ratio, we can control for timing, duration, and levels of gene expression in human cells. Long duration of gene expression is easily achieved with protein expressed for at least 30 days post NHG treatment. Moreover, we developed a novel suprachoroidal delivery method that resulted in injected material distribution covering 80% of the retina in rats, rabbits, and monkeys. Thus, this invention includes: (1) a novel system for retinal gene therapy delivery for patients with retinal/macular degeneration; (2) a novel platform for sustained gene expression in human/other hard-to-transfect non-dividing primary cells that may be used for studying gene expression, disease etiology, etc.
Mandel Yossi
The invention relates to a stimuli-responsive carrier system that enables controlled, transient, and reversible release of therapeutic and other functional substances. The system is based on a polymeric matrix crosslinked by redox-active metal ions, whose mechanical properties and diffusivity can be reversibly modulated by externally applied stimuli, such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) or visible light irradiation. Upon application of the stimulus, the matrix transiently softens and becomes permeable, allowing controlled release of incorporated cargos. Removal of the stimulus results in autonomous recovery of the matrix to its original, mechanically robust state, halting further release. The dissipative mechanism enables repeated on-demand release cycles from a single carrier depot without permanent degradation. The invention has broad applicability, including medical, ocular, industrial, and environmental uses. The invention is a collaborative effort of HUJI (Prof. Itamar Willner) and BIU (Prof. Yossi Mandel). BIU will share parts of the invention that are related solely to ocular use of the application.
Grinberg Ilya
his is a new design concept for intrinsic, single-phase magnetoelectric, multiferroics. The invention is both the concept – which is rather novel wherein we have developed a ordered chemistry-based approach to produce large magnetic moments in typically weakly magnetic materials and, by extension, get large magnetoelectric coupling between the polarization and magnetization. This is the realization of the ultimate goal of research in this field for more than 20 years. We have made a robust, room-temperature ferroelectric, magnetic, and magnetoelectric single-phase material.
Banin Ehud
A novel formulation to produce pickering emulsion that utilizes a green solvent and allows production of superhydrophobic coatings with antibiofilm activity.
Barda-Saad Mira
The focus of this patent application is the development of a novel therapeutic approach for controlling and improving NK cell killing of cancer cells or viruses in vivo by suppressing the key negative regulators of NK cell cytotoxicity. Natural-killer (NK) cells represent a powerful weapon of immune defense against viral infections and tumor growth, via cytotoxicity of target cells. Specifically, NK cells are particularly efficient in removing metastatic cells and tumor grafts. We recently revealed that NK cell response is inhibited by two main mechanisms: (1) dephosphorylation of signaling molecule by the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1, and (2) ubiquitylation mediated degradation of signaling molecule by the E3 ubiquitin ligases c-Cbl and Cbl-b. These molecular events block NK cell activation; however, their suppression increases NK cell cytotoxicity of cancer cells. NK cell-based immunotherapies represent a promising strategy to combat cancer, yet, no clinical trial has demonstrated a significant benefit in malignancies. Our novel approach for improving NK cell killing of cancer cells is composed of an in vivo NK-targeted drug-delivery system that strike the molecular mechanisms that inhibits NK cell activation, i.e. SHP-1 and the Cbls, using specific siRNA. To specifically target the NK cells, the siRNA will be coupled to nanoparticles coated with specific antibodies to NK cells.
