NIH-funded research R21 grant

Treatment of infections in wounds using nanospray technology

Official title: Nanospray treatment of biofilm infections in wounds

Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-11076666 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new nanospray treatment designed to help people with stubborn wounds, like burns or pressure ulcers, by breaking down harmful bacteria clusters that slow down healing, making it easier for medicines to work and helping you recover better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Piscataway, United States)
Project startApril 18, 2024
Project endFebruary 28, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$223,459
NIH project number5R21AI169045-02
Project IDNIH-11076666 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic non-healing wounds, such as those with severe burns, pressure ulcers, or surgical site infections.

Less likely to help

Patients with acute wounds that are healing normally or those without biofilm-related complications may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel nanospray treatment aimed at addressing microbial biofilm infections that complicate wound healing. Biofilms, which are clusters of bacteria that adhere to surfaces, can significantly hinder recovery from wounds such as burns, pressure ulcers, and surgical sites. The approach focuses on using surfactants to enhance the penetration of therapeutic agents through the biofilm's protective layers, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients with chronic wounds. By targeting the underlying biofilm, the research aims to reduce antibiotic resistance and promote effective healing.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for chronic wounds, reducing complications and improving healing rates.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using surfactants to disrupt biofilms, indicating that this approach may be effective, though the specific application of nanospray technology is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
    Piscataway, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Roth, Charles M. — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
  • Study coordinator: Roth, Charles M.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.