A novel approach to biofilm disruption and removal

Combination therapy to tackle bacterial biofilms

Challenge

Up to 80% of human bacterial infections are biofilm associated. Biofilms formed by bacteria can attach to living and non-living surfaces, such as implants and indwelling medical devices such as catheters, where they pose a significant infection risk for patients.

Biofilms are also responsible for contamination in industrial and institutional settings, where they are expensive to remove and cause damage to surfaces.

Proposed Solution

This project takes a new approach to resolving bacterial biofilm problems in humans and industrial settings, through mimicking natural and synergistic multimodal strategies. Whiteley Corporation together with the University of Sydney will develop several new therapeutic treatments for biofilm mediated infection, that effectively disrupt the formation of biofilm and eradicate underlying bacteria found, for instance, in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients, chronic urinary tract infections, burn wounds. There are industrial applications as well in dry and wet surfaces, the food industry and industrial oil, gas and water pipes.

Using advanced manufacturing design methods combined with Industry 4.0 manufacturing processes, the project will develop and manufacture small/highly customisable high-value products in a Good Manufacturing Product (GMP) environment including novel packing and a dosage delivery device.

The development and manufacturing of formulations for different applications and carriers, (e.g. gels, foams and coatings) will be key to the products’ success.

This project will not only have benefits to human health and the industrial sector but would also benefit the Australian manufacturing and supply chain, as well as job creation in the Hunter Region of NSW where Whiteley Corporations production facility is located.