Developing coatings that prevent bacterial growth using liquid-infused surfaces

Slippery Liquid-Infused Polymer Coatings that Release Hydrophilic Antimicrobial Agents

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11046613

This study is exploring new surfaces that can help keep hospitals cleaner by releasing special agents to fight off harmful bacteria, which could lead to safer medical devices and a lower risk of infections for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11046613 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative surfaces that can release antibiotics and anti-virulence agents to combat bacterial fouling in healthcare settings. The project aims to design new types of liquid-infused porous surfaces, known as 'SLIPS', which can effectively reduce bacterial load and prevent harmful bacterial behaviors. By utilizing these advanced coatings, the research seeks to address persistent challenges in maintaining sterile environments in clinical settings. Patients may benefit from improved medical devices and surfaces that minimize the risk of infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing procedures involving medical devices or implants that are at risk of bacterial infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing any medical procedures or do not have devices that could be affected by bacterial fouling may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant reductions in healthcare-associated infections by improving the surfaces of medical devices and equipment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using liquid-infused surfaces for antifouling applications, indicating that this approach may be effective.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.