Anti-bacterial coating 

Healthcare associated infections (HAIs) occur from medical devices and contribute directly to increased patient morbidity and mortality as well as a financial burden on the healthcare services. The growth of micro-organisms have shown to be a challenge in treating HAIs due to increasing resistance to antimicrobial therapies. The micro-organisms most frequently associated with HAIs include Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The need for anti-bacterial coatings has been increasing over the years. Most currently available anti-bacterial coatings are undesirable because they are either based on antibiotics or kill bacteria actively by using substances that can also be harmful for the patient. 

One of the key advantages of anti-bacterial coatings is their ability to reduce the risk of infection and contamination. In medical settings, anti-bacterial coatings are used on a wide range of devices, including catheters, implants, and wound dressings. By preventing the growth and spread of bacteria, these coatings can reduce the risk of infections and other complications associated with medical procedures. 

Despite their many benefits, anti-bacterial coatings also present some challenges. One of the main challenges is the development of resistance. Over time, bacteria can develop resistance to the active agents in anti-bacterial coatings, making them less effective over time. This can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, which can be difficult to treat and may cause serious health problems. 

Another challenge is the safety and toxicity of anti-bacterial coatings. Some coatings may contain chemicals that are harmful to human health or the environment, and it is important to ensure that these coatings are safe for use in a wide range of applications. In addition, some coatings may have unintended consequences, such as disrupting the natural balance of microorganisms in the environment or contributing to the development of antibiotic resistance. 

LipoCoat aims to reduce HAIs and improve medical device comfort and performance. We have developed a coating that acts as an anti-bacterial agent in a passive manner. The anti-bacterial properties from the coating originate from the bio-inspired design that is based on the phospholipid bilayer membrane that surrounds mammalian cells. Rather than killing bacteria, the coating prevents them from ever attaching to the surface, making them unable to grow into a biofilm and cause complications.