About DeAngelis

Paul DeAngelis is both a scientist and entrepreneur.

Technology developed by DeAngelis, professor of biochemistry and molecular biology, is the basis of three OU spin-off biotech companies: Choncept, Heparinex and Hyalose.

Choncept focuses on the production of chondroitin sulfate, part of a protein molecule naturally found in cartilage of the body. Choncept’s chondroitin is created by fermentation of recombinant bacteria to replace the current chondroitin source of beef, shark and other animal by-products; the new product avoids such detrimental issues as Mad Cow disease, allergies and depleting endangered species. Modified chondroitin is currently used in eye surgery and nutraceuticals for joint health, and is being tested as a new anti-coagulant.

Heparinex creates methods of producing bacteria for heparosan and in vitro-defined polymer syntheses. The company’s commercial focus is on the novel recombinant synthesis of compounds for the growing anti-coagulation market and the replacement of Botox, collagen and hyaluronic acid as a cosmetic wrinkle remover.

Hyalose, formed to commercialize several unique recombinant technologies of DeAngelis and Paul Weigel, professor of biochemistry and molecular biology. Hyalose has licensed one of its technology platforms, hyaluronic acid production by fermentation, to Novozymes Biopolymer A/S. This product is now on the market for use in eye drops and moisturizers; medical device applications (ocular and joint) are in development. Other platforms employ defined HA syntheses for improving chemotherapy drugs and developing novel therapeutics targeting inflammation, cancer and wound healing.

Spinoff Company Connection

Choncept

Heparinex

Hyalose

Emergent Technologies