Spire awarded patent for nano-PV devices

BEDFORD, USA: Spire Corp. has been awarded a patent for its invention of a nanophotovoltaic (Nano-PV) device which, when applied to biological cells such as cancer, can control and/or limit their growth.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued Spire Corporation U.S. Patent No. 7,955,965 entitled “Nanophotovoltaic Devices.” Spire’s invention provides Nano-PV devices having sizes in a range of about 50 nanometers to about 5 microns, and a method for their fabrication. The devices functionalized to target specific cells and then are selectively activated by light to generate an electrical charge to kill or interfere with cell growth.

Roger G. Little, Chairman, CEO, and co-inventor, said: “This being our third patent issued from our original invention, we have combined our understanding of photovoltaics with our experience in the biomedical field. We are excited to have received this patent and are enthusiastic that it makes an impact in medicine.

“This patent further strengthens our intellectual property portfolio in our optoelectronic and biomedical market areas. It is a testament to the creativity of our research staff.”