BL4-4 AntiBacCat

Our goal is to develop next-generation venous catheter coatings that simultaneously prevent bacterial infections and thromboembolic events. To this end, the most advanced technologies from the academic field are being further developed and integrated into the current production process at our industrial partner Vygon.

Venous catheters are indispensable components of modern medical practice and contribute significantly to improving the success of patient treatment. Despite advanced catheter technologies, their use often results in complications that lead to prolonged hospital stays, increased mortality and increased healthcare costs. Even the surface of the most advanced catheters inevitably activates blood clotting. This leads to the accumulation of fibrin and other blood components on the surface of the catheter and results in the formation of thrombi and a fibrin sheath, leading to catheter occlusion and vascular damage. The deposition of blood components on the catheter surface significantly promotes colonization with bacteria and the formation of difficult-to-treat biofilms. In AntiBacCat, a nanocoating has been developed that exhibits bactericidal activity and simultaneously repels blood components and bacteria, the so-called “kill-and-repell” principle.

AntiBacCat will close the gap between the most advanced antifouling coatings from the academic field and the current requirements and economic challenges of the catheter industry, enabling companies from the former Rhenish Mining Area to achieve a unique position on the market.