To overcome that challenge, MIT engineers have developed a gel-like oral drug formulation that can coat the mucosal lining of the esophagus after being swallowed, allowing drugs to pass through the tissue.

The formulation, which includes a hydrogel and other key ingredients that promote rapid drug absorption, could be used to deliver antibodies, including infliximab, used to treat a number of autoimmune diseases, or other types of antibodies or small-molecule drugs.