CASE STUDY
Antimicrobial polymer coating for neonatal medical devices
EARLY LIFE
THEME
UNMET NEED
Late-onset infections (LOI) in premature babies are a leading cause of death, illness, and are associated with poor long-term outcomes in survivors. LOIs are often acquired whilst in hospital from life-supporting medical devices. As a result, the risk of permanent neurodevelopmental impairment is increased, which if acquired reduces life expectancy by almost 15 years. Reducing the risk of LOI is crucial to minimising complications and improving life expectancy.
PROJECT CONCEPT / SOLUTION
In order to reduce the risk of LOI, this project aimed to test new coatings for common neonatal medical devices that resist bacterial colonisation without the need for antibiotics. The project simulated a neonatal intensive care space using a humidified neonatal incubator with the devices inside and frequent access to the incubator itself to introduce ‘environmental’ pathogens from skin and textiles. The team then investigated the ability of the new coated devices to resist colonisation.
SUPPORT PROVIDED
FUNDING
Our team provided pump-priming funding for the proof of concept pilot study and further funding was secured through funding applications submitted by our Early Life theme lead, Professor Don Sharkey.
STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATIONS
Our team supported the establishment of industry and university partnerships with key stakeholders throughout this project.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Our team provided general oversight and support of the proof of concept work, and ensured key deadlines and deliverables were achieved.
FUNDING
Proof of concept funding for this project was provided by NIHR Children and Young People MedTech Co-operative (NIHR CYP MedTech, now known as the NIHR HealthTech Research Centre (HRC) in Paediatrics and Child Health).
Additional funding support was provided by the University of Nottingham and SurePulse Medical Ltd.
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT
BEFORE SUPPORT
BASIC IDEA
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
PROTOTYPE DEVELOPMENT
PROTOTYPE VALIDATION
CLINICAL TESTING
REGULATORY APPROVAL
MANUFACTURING
COMMERCIALLY / PUBLICLY AVAILABLE
CURRENT STAGE
BASIC IDEA
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
PROTOTYPE DEVELOPMENT
PROTOTYPE VALIDATION
CLINICAL TESTING
REGULATORY APPROVAL
MANUFACTURING
COMMERCIALLY / PUBLICLY AVAILABLE
POTENTIAL IMPACT
The promising pilot data from this project was presented at the Neonatal Society Conference and has been pivotal in several grant and fellowship applications. A further £22,000 of Medical Research Council (MRC) funding was awarded following this proof of concept and as a result, the team have been able to support a new MRC Doctoral Training Partnership PhD studentship.
This project started as a proof of concept pilot study and has laid the foundations for highly successful and impactful research into neonatal technologies that will vastly improve outcomes for newborn babies for years to come.
NEXT STEPS
The work supported by the NIHR Invention for Innovation award is ongoing. The project will continue to receive support from the NIHR HRC in Paediatrics and Child Health.
PARTNERS