The use of light activated antimicrobials to prevent catheter related infection

This project is focussed on reducing catheter acquired infection or CAI. These infections are widespread in the NHS and are particularly prevelant in newborns and the elderly. Our project seeks to reduce these infections through a new approach that uses a light source and a new class of catheter. This catheter has embedded dye molecules that under the action of light produce species that are toxic to bacteria. These catheters are self sterilising and most importantly show the ability to resist the biofilm formation that is the precursor to infection. It has been determined that catheter born infections are the most common cause of hospital acquired infection in the UK.

This proposal seeks to reduce catheter acquired infections through the construction of a new class of catheter. These catheters have embedded light activated antimicrobial molecules in tandem with gold nanoparticles. Under the action of white light (from an LED) or laser source these catheters kill bacteria though the production of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore the new catheter surface prevents bacterial adhesion and has been shown to be able to remove a biofilm. This project aims to optimise the formation of the best antimicrobial catheter by optimisation of the LAAA- gold photosensitiser, develop the best light delivery method and incorporate these into a prototype device. We seek to do preclinical studies of the prototype device including appropriate animal testing.