An in-situ infection detection sensor coating for urinary catheters

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Proteus mirabilis infections cause crystalline biofilms on urinary catheters, leading to blockage and complications.
• Current methods lack effective control or early warning for these infections.
• Long-term catheterization poses risks due to potential P. mirabilis-induced blockages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel infection-responsive coating for urinary catheters.
• To provide a clear visual early warning of P. mirabilis infection and catheter blockage.
• To mitigate risks associated with P. mirabilis-induced catheter blockages.

Main Methods:

• A dual-layered coating was designed: a poly(vinyl alcohol) layer with carboxyfluorescein dye and an upper pH-responsive poly(methyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) (Eudragit S100®) layer.
• The coating's response to pH changes, indicative of P. mirabilis infection, was investigated.
• Prototype coatings were tested in a clinically relevant in vitro bladder model.

Main Results:

• The coating provides a visual warning upon urinary pH increase (>pH 7) due to Eudragit layer dissolution and dye release.
• Prototype coatings demonstrated up to 12 hours of advanced warning for impending catheter blockage.
• The coating remained stable in the absence of infection and with non-blockage-causing species.

Conclusions:

• The developed infection-responsive coating offers a promising visual early warning system for P. mirabilis infections and catheter blockage.
• This innovation addresses a critical unmet need in managing long-term catheterization patients.
• The coating enhances patient safety by providing timely alerts for potential complications.