VAPShield: Development of next-generation endotracheal tube materials for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia

About the Project

Critically ill patients often depend on life-saving devices such as breathing tubes, called endotracheal tubes (ETTs), to help them breathe when they cannot do so on their own. However, ETTs can increase the risk of a serious lung infection called ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). VAP is one of the most common infections picked up in intensive care units, responsible for 3,000-6,000 deaths in the UK each year. One of the main ways VAP develops is through a process called microaspiration. Microaspiration occurs when tiny amounts of fluid leak into the lungs instead of being swallowed into the stomach. Although the amounts are small and often unnoticed, they can carry harmful bacteria into the lungs where they stick to the ETT’s surface and form a slimy protective layer known as a biofilm. Biofilms shield bacteria from both antibiotics and the immune system, making infections much more challenging to treat.

Because treating VAP is so challenging, prevention is the best approach. Current methods, such as cleaning the mouth with antibacterial solutions or gently suctioning fluids from the airway, can help but are not enough to fully stop the problem. This project aims to create a new type of functional coating and/or surface modification of ETT, based on current technologies developed in our research lab, that directly tackles the conditions leading to VAP by preventing bacteria from sticking to tubes and reducing the need for antibiotics to treat established infections. This innovation could lower the risk of VAP, improve recovery for critically ill patients, and slow the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Training that will be provided through the research project

The candidate will benefit from broad training in materials science, organic chemistry, microscopic techniques (SEM, AFM, fluorescence microscopy), and surface fouling assay techniques e.g. microbiology, tissue culture, and protein adsorption studies. Presentation, writing and interpersonal skills will be developed. The student will also have access to a wide range of training opportunities provided by the university's graduate school programme.

Expected impact activities

Our research has attracted interest from several leading medical device companies with several ongoing industrial collaborations. This project will further this research and it is envisaged findings from the project may lead to further opportunities to engage with our industrial partners. The successful candidate will present the findings at local, national and international conferences and in scientific papers in high impact peer reviewed journals.

Overall, the project will develop infection-resistant surfaces which can reduce the risk of VAP. Findings from this project will lay the groundwork towards potential optimisation for future clinical translation.

Funding Notes

This project is not funded; applications are welcome from self-funding candidates.

References

drug delivery; ventilator-associated pneumonia; medical device; antimicrobial resistance; coatings; biomaterials