Nanoparticle-based Wound Care for Antibiotic Resistant Pathogens

This proof-of-concept research effort will lay the foundation for integrating metal nanoparticle-coated natural fibers into antibacterial wound dressings and sutures. A current military need for the proposed technology is in the arena of topical preventative measures against and treatments for wound infections. iFyber LLC, the lead company for this project, will work with Professor of Nanobiology Nathaniel C. Cady of UAlbany in the testing and development of a broad-spectrum approach to combating infections within military populations. We will work to expand on our ability to conformally deposit various metal onto cellulose and silk fibers with very high surface coverage using a layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly process. This proposed effort aims to develop a nanostructured coating that will exploit this LBL-based processes to control the antibacterial properties of wound care products used by the US Department of Defense.