A University of Akron researcher is developing a new way to fight breast cancer.

Dr. Judit Puskas is developing a safer breast implant with a polymer coating that could actually help destroy cancer cells and fight infections.

She has received international recognition from GE Healthcare as one of five of the most exciting and innovative ideas in the battle against breast cancer.

The “GE Healthymagination Cancer Challenge” will provide initial funding, mentorship and incubation in order to try to bring Dr. Puskas’ discoveries to market.

Puskas is among five award winners that will recieve $100,000 in "seed money" to help further develop her idea.

The healing drugs would be implanted in the polymer material and released in the body after a mastectomy or reconstruction.

The University of Akron currently holds the patent on the process.  

Click here for a list of the winners.