Developing a catheter cap to prevent infections in dialysis patients
Official title: Catheter Cap with Anti-biofilm Luminal Insert
Funded at Allvivo Vascular, INC. · NIH-11006223 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new cap for dialysis catheters that helps prevent infections in patients by using a special antimicrobial treatment, making it safer and easier for you during your treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Allvivo Vascular, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lake Forest, United States) |
| Project start | August 5, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $295,922 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DK141303-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006223 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing hemodialysis who are at risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use catheters for hemodialysis or those not undergoing hemodialysis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an innovative catheter end cap designed to reduce the risk of bloodstream infections (BSI) in patients undergoing hemodialysis. The Gatekeeper™ antimicrobial barrier cap (GCAP) will utilize a novel antimicrobial peptide to eliminate infection-causing microorganisms within the catheter hubs. By preventing infections, this device aims to reduce the need for high-dose antibiotics and catheter replacements, which can lead to complications and increased healthcare costs. The approach involves a guidewire that releases the antimicrobial agent when the cap is applied, effectively combating biofilm formation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower the incidence of infections in hemodialysis patients, improving their health outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using antimicrobial devices is being explored, this specific application of an antimicrobial cap for hemodialysis catheters is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Allvivo Vascular, INC.
Lake Forest, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Neff, Jennifer Ann — Allvivo Vascular, INC.
- Study coordinator: Neff, Jennifer Ann
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Antimicrobial Treatment for Wound Biofilms to Help Healing
A new antimicrobial peptide (Gatekeeper) delivered in a patient-friendly wound gel is being developed to kill bacteria in chronic wound biofilms and promote healing.
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New treatment to fight infections in chronic wounds
This study is testing a new gel called Gatekeeper™ that helps heal stubborn wounds by fighting off bacteria that can cause infections, making it a great option for anyone struggling with chronic wounds.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.