Life on a string: development of the tetracycline fiber delivery system

Development of new drug therapy is difficult for large companies and almost unheard of by individuals. This autobiographical account of the development of the tetracycline fiber delivery system for periodontal therapy (Actisite) relates experiences of a scientist between 1976 and 1994 which lead to FDA approval. In this account, the author acknowledges some of the key people, companies and institutions who were important in this development, makes observations concerning the process itself and offers suggestions for those who might consider commercial development of a scientific concept.