Integration of Riboflavin-Modified Carbon Fiber Mesh Electrode Systems in a 3D-Printed Catheter Hub.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Infectious Disease Research

Background:

• Catheter-associated infections are a significant clinical challenge, increasing the risk of sepsis.
• Early detection of microbial contamination is crucial for preventing severe outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel sensing system for the early detection of bacterial contamination in catheters.
• To leverage electrochemical methods for real-time monitoring of microbial activity.

Main Methods:

• A 3D-printed catheter needle-free connector was modified with a riboflavin-based electrochemical sensor.
• The sensor system was designed to monitor pH variations caused by bacterial metabolism.
• Electrochemical measurements of riboflavin's redox potential were correlated with pH changes.

Main Results:

• Riboflavin, a biocompatible molecule, exhibits pH-dependent electrochemical behavior.
• The sensor demonstrated a linear response to pH changes (63 mV/pH unit), indicative of near-Nernstian behavior.
• The system accurately monitored pH in authentic intravenous infusates, showing potential for detecting contamination.

Conclusions:

• A proof-of-concept for an electrode-printed catheter hub was successfully demonstrated.
• This riboflavin-based sensor offers a foundation for developing early warning systems for catheter contamination.
• The technology has the potential to significantly reduce catheter-related infections and sepsis incidence.