Polymer Exploration Group LLC PA-14-071 AbstractProject Title: Antimicrobial catheters with cell and tissue compatibilityAbstractCatheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are often encountered with subsequentantibiotic administration contributing to buildup of bacterial resistance. Leaving behindcustomary methods including release of silver and antimicrobials, PEG LLC is developing a newapproach to produce catheters that kill bacteria but are compatible with human cells. Thepromise of this new overcoat method is not based on any single characteristic but on anunprecedented combination of features. These include an ?intelligent choice? for economicalchemistry and processing. Proposed Phase II research is based on a promising paradigm-breaking approach coupled with in vitro and in vivo evaluations designed to assess feasibilityand FDA requirements. A strong interdisciplinary team is dedicated to ?bottoms up? biomaterialsengineering that fills a strong need in the face of ?top down? requirements to achieve suchunprecedented capabilities economically. Indeed, PEG-LLC research promises to have a majorimpact not only on improving patient outcomes but in providing an economic benefit in reducingthe rapidly rising cost of medical care.Key Words: catheters; overcoat; cell compatibility; antimicrobial;
Polymer Exploration Group LLC Phase II Project Narrative NIH SBIR Award #1R43DK103398 - 01A1Project Narrative (Relevance)Infection is a serious medical complication associated with health care environments. Catheterassociated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are important contributors to such infections; withestimates ranging from 40-60%. Women; those with strokes; the disabled and the elderly areparticularly susceptible to CAUTIs. Polymer Exploration Group; PEG LLC is developing a newapproach to greatly reduce the incidence of CAUTIs. The new PEG LLC approach does not useantibiotics or antimicrobials that lead to ?super-bugs?. PEG LLC also avoids heavy metals likesilver. In summary; PEG LLC is aiming to eliminate infections with comfort and safety forpatients. Results thus far show exciting promise for bringing much needed innovation tocatheter technology.
