Targeted Therapeutic Nanogels for Effective Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in Wounds

This project will produce an antibacterial nanogel platform to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections in wounds. Infections by multidrug-resistant bacteria are increasing at an alarming rate and represents a growing threat to US military medicine and public health. Bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, E. coli and K. pneumonia have developed antibiotic drug resistance, making infections extremely difficult to treat. Currently available drugs are useless against these genetically-mutated pathogens. Such infections are the most significant complication that occurs as a result of an injury, placing an enormous cost on our health care system ($7,000 - $9,000 daily). Our proprietary nanogel technology, HydroDEX shows anti-bacterial activity against antibiotic resistant pathogens. The platform consists of FDA approved dextran and FDA approved poloxomer crosslinked to form nanogels (~100 nm in size). These nanogels are able to rapidly eradicate wound infections via either: (1) incorporation into wound dressings; (2) topical spray/gel administration; or (3) systemic injection. Attached to the nanogel surface is a proprietary targeting pro-drug which binds very selectively to the cell wall of the bacteria, resulting in cell death. Conjugation to the polymer matrix prevents any side effects of the prodrug, rendering HydroDEX safe and effective.