Improving medical implants to reduce inflammation and fibrosis

Durable Zwitterionic Coatings: Dramatic Reduction of Implant-Induced Inflammation and Fibrosis

['FUNDING_SBIR_1'] · ZWICOAT MATERIALS INNOVATIONS, LLC · NIH-11008220

This study is looking at ways to make a common material used in medical implants, like cochlear implants and stents, less likely to cause inflammation in your body, so that these devices work better and last longer for you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_1']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorZWICOAT MATERIALS INNOVATIONS, LLC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SOLON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11008220 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the surface of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a common material used in medical implants, to reduce the body's inflammatory response. By applying zwitterionic coatings, the project aims to minimize the adhesion of proteins that lead to fibrotic tissue formation around implants, which can impair their function and longevity. The study will investigate the effectiveness of these coatings in preventing complications associated with various medical devices, including cochlear implants and stents. Patients may benefit from improved device performance and reduced risk of infections due to better biocompatibility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who require medical implants, such as cochlear implants or stents, and are at risk of complications from inflammation or fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require any form of medical implants or those with conditions unrelated to implant-induced inflammation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective medical implants, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with zwitterionic coatings in enhancing the biocompatibility of various materials, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

SOLON, 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 →

Conditions: Cancers

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.