Developing a catheter cap to prevent infections in dialysis patients
Catheter Cap with Anti-biofilm Luminal Insert
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 ID | NIH-11006223 on NIH RePORTER |
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.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing hemodialysis who are at risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use catheters for hemodialysis or those not undergoing hemodialysis may not benefit from this research.
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 performed: 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
Lake Forest, United States
- Allvivo Vascular, INC. — Lake Forest, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Neff, Jennifer Ann — Allvivo Vascular, INC.
- Study coordinator: Neff, Jennifer Ann
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 below.