BCN Nano-Coatings on Catheters to Prevent Bacterial Infections

Abstract

The University of Central Florida invention describes boron carbon nitride (BCN) nano-coatings on central venous catheters (CVCs) for antimicrobial activity. Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) caused by bacterial colonization of medical devices such as CVCs and are a leading cause of concern due to an increase in hospitalization duration, costs, and morbidity.

Technical Details

The BCN nano-coatings on CVCs were tested for inhibition of bacterial colonies. RF magnetron sputtering technique was used to deposit nano-coatings of BCN (and TiO₂ for comparison) on CVCs. The nano-coatings were tested against gram positive Bacillus cereus and gram-negative Escherichia coli bacterial cells.

The nanoparticle coated and uncoated catheter surfaces were studied using field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to determine if the surface characteristics correlated with anti-adhesive effects of the bacteria.

Biofilm formation on uncoated and BCN coated catheters was quantified using absorbance spectrophotometry.

Bacterial growth - BCN nanocoating inhibits bacterial growth by at least 80% compared to 19% by TiO2 nano-coatings

Biofilm formation - BCN nanocoating reduces biofilm formation by at least 60% (62% for E. Coli and 75% for B. cereus)

Benefit

Market Application

Publications

Boron Carbon Nitride (BCN) Nano-Coatings of Central Venous Catheters Inhibits Bacterial Colonization, ECS Journal of Solid State Science and Technology, Volume 9, Number 11, DOI 10.1149/2162-8777/abb009.