Light-activated nitric oxide catheter coating to prevent infections and clots
Prevention of catheter related infections via photoactive nitric oxide delivery device
A light-activated catheter coating that releases nitric oxide to help prevent infections and blood clots in people who need long-term IV lines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11333275 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are creating a catheter material that slowly releases nitric oxide, a natural chemical your blood vessels make, to stop bacteria and keep blood from clotting on the catheter surface. The coating blends an NO-donor compound called SNAP into the catheter polymer and is designed to be activated by light to control release. The team will test the material in lab experiments and animal models to see if it prevents biofilm formation and platelet activation without harming blood. If those tests go well, the device could move toward clinical testing in people with indwelling catheters.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have or will need indwelling intravascular catheters (such as central lines, PICC lines, or dialysis catheters) are the most likely candidates for this device.
Not a fit: People who do not use vascular catheters or who already have an active bloodstream infection are unlikely to benefit from this preventive technology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the coating could lower catheter-related bloodstream infections and clotting, reducing complications, hospital stays, and the need for antibiotics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory and animal studies of nitric-oxide-releasing materials have shown reduced bacterial growth and platelet activation, but the specific light-activated SNAP-blended catheter approach is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brisbois, Elizabeth Joy — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Brisbois, Elizabeth Joy
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.