Developing a catheter that prevents bloodstream infections using electrochemical reactions

Electrochemical Catheter for Prevention of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11012374

This study is testing a new kind of central venous catheter that makes a special solution to help prevent infections in people who need these catheters, aiming to keep you safer without using antibiotics.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012374 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new type of central venous catheter that uses electrochemical reactions to generate a biocide called hypochlorous acid (HOCl) within the catheter lumen. By doing so, it aims to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI), which can occur when pathogens enter the bloodstream through these catheters. The approach is non-antibiotic, which may help combat antibiotic resistance. The researchers have already shown promising results in preliminary tests, indicating that this method could effectively reduce infection rates.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who require central venous catheters for treatments such as hemodialysis or those in critical care settings.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require central venous catheters or those with existing severe infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of bloodstream infections in patients with central venous catheters.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with similar electrochemical approaches in preventing infections, indicating potential for this novel method.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.