EMBEK1

Development and analysis of polymer based multi-functional bactericidal materials

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'90% of bacteria are found attached to solid surfaces forming structures (bio-films), that are inaccessible to drugs and antibiotics. These bio-films represent a major problem in European society in both industry and health care. Currently, however, we understand little about how these bio-films form and, more importantly, how they can be prevented. This lack of understanding means that patients often suffer ‘unnecessary’ and painful infections following the formation of such films on surgical implants and catheters. With the growing problem of MRSA and C. difficile in hospitals, and the cost of policing and hygiene measures, an understanding of how to prevent bacterial persistence in the hospital environment is critical to the sustainability of European healthcare. A multi-disciplinary group of European experts have the common aim to understand exactly how bacteria attach to, and persist on both biological and inert surfaces. We will use a range of biological and physio-chemical techniques to study several fundamental aspects of bacterial attachment. We will employ new molecular microbiology techniques to understand the genetic components governing the interaction of a bacterial biotic cell surface with the novel antimicrobial surfaces we create. Second, we will be using new nano-scale material science and physical chemistry techniques to create and understand these antimicrobial surfaces. This duel systems approach will allow us to theoretically model the processes of bacterial attachment and survival, which in turn will allow us to improve these surfaces in an iterative approach. We will generate intellectual property around the coatings and treatments used to derive the surfaces and develop these in collaboration with industry. The solutions will be designed specifically for the industrial partners participating in the project but can, with a minimum effort be adapted for applications in other areas through the iterative steps within the WPs.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

Patients with surgical implants or catheters are subject to bacterial infection at the site of insertion. EU-funded scientists are developing novel antimicrobial materials to stop bacterial adherence and growth.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

Most bacteria attach to solid surfaces by forming a film that makes them impervious to drugs and antibiotics. Despite numerous studies on bacteria over the years, knowledge about the formation of bio films and their prevention is still limited. Scientists initiated the EU-funded project 'Development and analysis of polymer based multi-functional bactericidal materials' (EMBEK1) to fill this knowledge gap and use it to develop antimicrobial materials for sustainable European health care.

Materials development has led to several novel combinations, including metal ion-release systems with controllable release properties. Effectiveness of metal ions (silver, zinc or copper) in treating certain bacteria, as well as the appropriate doses for antibacterial activity without toxicity were revealed.

Scientists have also used biocompatible vesicles loaded with antimicrobial agents to release drugs or viruses (bacteriophages) that selectively infect pathogenic bacteria on biological activation. Project-generated data could play an important role in the development of phage-containing wound bandages and creams.

Selected coatings are now being tested on hospital textiles. Some coatings successfully prevented the adherence and growth of bacteria while promoting the adherence and growth of healthy tissue to support the biointegration of an implant. Successful outcomes have led to a patent application.

Finally, using sophisticated genetics and proteomics, scientists are studying an insect model of infection and the effects of silver, zinc and copper-release systems to understand mechanisms of bacterial resistance. Particularly exciting was the fact that two common bacteria during the 18 months of study showed no signs of developed resistance to zinc.

EMBEK1 has already made significant progress in understanding the mechanisms of bacterial growth on surfaces and the development of antimicrobial treatments. Project outcomes are expected to have major impact on the reduction of hospital infections, improving the quality of patient care and decreasing its cost.