UTI Reduction in Neurogenic Bladder

This project develops and tests two novel functional gel compositions to be used with intermittent and indwelling catheters. There is a high incidence of life-long recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) in individuals with neuro-urologic disorders who use these catheters due to continuous, repeated catheterization, and compromises in the hygiene and the natural mucosal barrier. This results in chronic inflammation, recurrent UTI episodes, stone formation and continuous antibiotic use. Multi-resistant organisms (MRO) in neurogenic bladder populations are common, leading to nosocomial infections in rehabilitation units. Currently, there is no proven prophylaxis for UTI, in such populations and the level of morbidity remains unacceptable. This project demonstrates the potency of two novel functional gel compositions for intermittent and indwelling catheters and characterizes their individual and combined ability in this proof of concept stage to reach >95% mucosal pathogenic biofilm inhibition and reduction of inflammatory response on ex vivo human bladder mucosal explants and Inhibit bacterial contamination of the catheter and insoluble calcium crystal growth by >95% in urine media. A successful therapeutic approach such as this would help improve the quality of lives for adults and children with neurogenic bladder, who live with the consequences of recurrent UTI.