Developing a new method to prevent blood clots and infections in medical devices

Heparin-free extracorporeal circulation via combined nitric oxide releasing/generating surfaces

NIH-funded research University of Georgia · NIH-10818437

This study is looking at new ways to make medical devices that come into contact with your blood safer by creating surfaces that release a natural substance to help stop blood clots and infections, which could be especially helpful for patients needing special treatments that involve blood circulation.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Georgia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Athens, United States)
Project IDNIH-10818437 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving blood-contacting medical devices by creating surfaces that release nitric oxide, which helps prevent blood clots and infections. The approach aims to eliminate the need for anticoagulants like heparin, which can cause bleeding complications. By mimicking the natural function of blood vessel lining, the study seeks to enhance the safety and effectiveness of devices used in critical care, especially for patients requiring extracorporeal circulation. The research involves testing these innovative surfaces in laboratory settings to evaluate their performance in preventing thrombosis and bacterial infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients undergoing procedures that require extracorporeal circulation, such as those with severe respiratory issues or requiring mechanical support.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require blood-contacting medical devices or those with conditions that contraindicate the use of such devices may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risks of blood clots and infections for patients using medical devices, leading to safer treatment options.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using nitric oxide-releasing surfaces to prevent thrombosis and infections, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Athens, 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.
Conditions bacteria infectionbacterial diseaseBacterial InfectionsCoagulation Disorderbleeding disorder
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.