Vivian Merk

Abstract

Pressure ulcers are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue primarily caused by prolonged compression limiting blood flow. Over 60,000 Americans die each year from complications associated with these injuries. Infections are the primary cause of death from ulcers due to dangerous bacteria like S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. New technologies are needed to improve the antibacterial properties of wound dressings for pressure ulcers and other injuries.

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a biomaterial of metal chitosan hydrogels with antimicrobial properties by using varying concentrations of metal ions. The materials can be tuned for water absorbance, liquid release, antibiotic uptake, and stiffness that can be integrated with medical devices, implants, and other materials. A prototype of the biomaterial has been developed with data showing its ability to inhibit the growth of leading bacteria that cause dangerous infections in ulcers and other wounds.

FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.

Benefit

Biodegradable - Material derived from natural FDA-approved products

Versatile - Resistant to microbial growth from multiple strains of deadly bacteria

Market Application

Antibacterial wound dressings

Coatings for implants and medical devices

Abstract

The quest for sustainable biomaterials is crucial in addressing the environmental challenges posed by traditional chitin extraction methods. Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed an innovative method to extract chitin scaffolds from mushrooms, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. This approach not only alleviates environmental concerns associated with conventional methods but also improves cost-effectiveness and production efficiency, promising widespread application across various industries.

Unlike the existing extraction techniques that heavily depend on crustacean shells, posing significant environmental concerns and supply instability, this novel approach utilizes white button mushrooms. The process involves a gentle chemical solution treatment, followed by the precipitation of minerals, resulting in biodegradable and highly porous chitin scaffolds.

FAU seeks to advance this innovation into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.

Benefit

Sustainability - Eco-friendly extraction reduces environmental impact

Cost-Efficiency - Inexpensive process with minimal chemical use

Quality and Quantity - High-quality, abundant chitin production

Market Application

Biomedical Engineering - Ideal for tissue engineering, wound dressing, and drug delivery vehicles due to biocompatibility

Consumer Products - Suitable for developing sustainable consumer goods

Environmental Remediation - Potential application in water treatment and pollution mitigation