Abstract
Biomedical devices intend to make improvements of patient care whereas related problems might lead to downturn in effectiveness or a failure of the device resulting in a deterioration in patient health. Application of these devices can be a risk factor to induce device-associated infections resulting in increasing death rates and medical costs in the healthcare system. In this work, we aims to develop a responsive biomaterial capable of triggered self- cleaning on the surface of indwelling catheters. By detecting the pH elevation at the onset of infection, the release of antimicrobials can be switched on specifically to reduce the risk of infections. Results have demonstrated that by applying this strategy as a hydrogel coating on silicone surface, reduced coefficient of friction and anti-adherence effectiveness against both P. mirabilis and S. aureus strains were achieved. Development of pH-responsive drug delivery hydrogel in this work offered a promising contribution to addressing problems related to device-associated infections.Thesis is embargoed until 31 December 2028.
| Date of Award | Dec 2023 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
|
| Supervisor | Colin McCoy (Supervisor), Matthew Wylie (Supervisor) & Louise Carson (Supervisor) |