March 3, 2003 — Boeing Co. has donated a patent to Vanderbilt University that could benefit nanobiotechnology applications, according to a news release.

The patent, which covers particle-separation technology, was developed originally to operate in the microgravity environment of space to separate cells, proteins and enzymes for pharmaceutical applications. The intellectual property covers a breakthrough that allows higher volume particle separation to be performed on Earth.

Vanderbilt researchers said they will continue Boeing’s research, which could ultimately lead to production of commercial drugs in large quantities at lower costs, the release said. The patent’s value was not disclosed.