Using 3D printing to create catheters that prevent urinary tract infections
3D-bioprinting of probiotic bacterial interference catheters for prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infections
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11065501
This study is testing a new type of catheter that uses friendly bacteria to help prevent urinary tract infections for people who need to use catheters, making it a safer option for them.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11065501 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of catheter that incorporates probiotics to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). By utilizing 3D bioprinting technology, the researchers aim to create catheters that can deliver live Lactobacillus probiotics, which may help to outcompete harmful bacteria and reduce infection rates. The study will assess the effectiveness of these bioprinted catheters in maintaining probiotic viability and their ability to release antimicrobial compounds over time. Patients who use catheters may benefit from this innovative approach to infection prevention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who require catheterization and are at risk for urinary tract infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require catheterization or have contraindications to probiotic use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections in catheterized patients, leading to better health outcomes and lower healthcare costs.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of probiotics for infection prevention is promising, this specific application of 3D bioprinting for catheter development is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GILBERT, NICOLE MARIE — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GILBERT, NICOLE MARIE
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.