Researchers at the University of Georgia have invented a material they call a “superfoam” that could both reduce infections caused by implanted medical devices and aid in cleanup efforts following environmental disasters such asThe scientists compared the new material to a “spongy Swiss Army knife” and described it as water repellent.
“You can find a surface that is only antimicrobial, or you can find one that can only prevent blood clotting. To be able to fabricate materials that are anticlotting, antimicrobial and antifouling is a significant improvement on current standards.” over a simple polymer. This means it has the potential to improve health outcomes for the more than 500,000 patients who suffer from health care-related infections due to medical implants each year.“Current medical devices are prone to contamination,” Handa said. “When you put any medical device into the body, proteins are the first thing to stick to a surface, and they act like a glue that allows blood or bacteria to adhere. So, if we can stop the protein adsorption, half the battle is won.
“The versatility is the key here,” said Mark Garren, a co-author on the paper and doctoral student in Handa’s lab. “The multifunctional properties are what inspired this, then developing that and showcasing all of its abilities.”
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