Using engineered lubricin to prevent infections in orthopedic implants
Engineering recombinant lubricin to combat orthopedic infection
This study is looking at how a substance called lubricin might help stop infections from bacteria that can stick to joint replacements and other orthopedic implants, with the goal of finding a new way to keep patients healthier and avoid the need for surgery to remove implants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10659014 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how a substance called lubricin can help prevent infections caused by bacteria that form biofilms on orthopedic implants. The study aims to understand the properties of lubricin and its ability to inhibit biofilm formation, which is a significant challenge in treating infections related to joint replacements and other orthopedic procedures. By exploring the unique structures of lubricin, the researchers hope to develop a new therapeutic approach that could improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for invasive procedures like implant removal. The research involves laboratory experiments to test the effectiveness of lubricin against various bacterial strains.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing orthopedic procedures involving implants, particularly those at risk for infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have orthopedic implants or are not at risk for infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the risk of infections in patients with orthopedic implants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that mucin biopolymers can effectively inhibit biofilm formation, suggesting that this approach may have a strong potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reesink, Heidi — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Reesink, Heidi
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.