This device allows for safe in situ exploration of myofascial pain biochemistry with minimal system perturbation.

Available for licensing and commercial development is a microdialysis probe made from a small-bore (32 gauge) needle containing both a fluid delivery and recovery tube within the bore. A molecular exchange membrane is positioned about 200 microns from the tip. Fluid flows across the membrane removing diffused molecules to a collection device. The rounded tip of the needle is designed to cause minimal tissue damage while allowing investigations to be performed on local tissue fluids. Additionally, this device allows simultaneous delivery of small concentrations of drug to the area immediately surrounding the device tip. The device is actively used to study the pathophysiology of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs), a very common physical finding and cause of musculoskeletal pain and disability. The device allows for safe in situ exploration of myofascial pain biochemistry with minimal system perturbation. Applications: Muscular stimulation; Musculoskeletal pain; Myofascial trigger points Market: Drug discovery; Pain management

U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/795,176 filed 27 Apr 2006 (HHS Reference No. E-024-2006/0-US-01) Inventors: Jay Shah (NIHCC), Terence Martyn Phillips (ORS), Jerome V. Danoff (NIHCC), Lynn Gerber (NIHCC)

Licensees Sought: Available for non-exclusive or exclusive licensing.