Developing coatings that prevent bacteria from sticking and reduce their harmful effects

Slippery Nanoemulsion-Infused Polymer Coatings that Prevent Bacterial Fouling and Block Bacterial Virulence

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10816576

This study is exploring new types of surfaces that are super slippery to help stop bacteria from sticking around in hospitals, making them safer for patients by reducing infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10816576 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative surfaces and coatings that are infused with slippery nanoemulsions to prevent bacteria from adhering and to reduce their virulence in healthcare environments. The project aims to design and test these new surfaces, which can not only resist bacterial fouling but also release active agents to further combat bacterial growth. By addressing the persistent issue of bacterial contamination in clinical settings, this research seeks to enhance patient safety and improve health outcomes. The approach combines advanced materials science with practical applications in infection control.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing medical procedures or treatments in clinical settings where bacterial infections are a concern.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing any medical procedures or who are not at risk of bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of infections in healthcare settings, leading to better patient outcomes and lower healthcare costs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing anti-fouling surfaces, but this approach using slippery nanoemulsions represents a novel and untested strategy.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.