Nanobio

at the interface of nanotechnology and life sciences

Antimicrobial surface in healthcare setting

Global threat of antimicrobial resistance is calling out urgently for novel antimicrobial strategies. Current technologies rely mostly on biocides which in the long-run are prone to antimicrobial resistance. Novel solutions to reduce spreading of infections and surface contamination must urgently reach out to the healthcare sector. Micro- and nano-structured surfaces represent a promising solution. However, there is no clear strategy for applying these in medical care. That is why we want to research new materials with antibiotic properties applied to metal medical implants. 

In this project, we aim to pattern pillar-like nanostructures on different curved metallic surfaces (e.g. pin with rod-like shape). These nanostructures may reduce bacterial contamination in medical devices as for example cardiac implants or the pins used for knee distraction surgery. 

Microbial contamination on surfaces can be reduced by the application of nanostructures, such as small pillars of a few 100s of nm high. Our objective is to implement such technology over curved surfaces for active bacteria-killing. Important research questions that will be addressed are: (1) which parameters are important for the antimicrobial action? (2) How do the different bacteria react to the structures? (3) How to fabricate nanostructures over curved surfaces?

Time period: February 2020 – June 2021
Projectleader: Tony Gouriye
Funding: Pioneers in Healthcare (2019 round)

Partners: