Giltech to develop MRSA killer
Giltech, a leader in controlled delivery and biodegradable technologies, is working in partnership with NHS Ayrshire & Arran to develop MRSA decolonisation products that have the potential to beat the superbug on a global scale. The company, based in Ayr, Scotland says by creating a nasal cream and body/hair shampoo containing its CorGlaes technology with pure silver ions it will create an MRSA decolonisation treatment that will be more effective than existing products. This should increase the number of patients who can be effectively cleansed of MRSA prior to receiving hospital treatment.
CorGlaes is a sodium calcium phosphate glass that dissolves completely and harmlessly in any aqueous environment. Each customised formulation is specifically designed to enable precise control over the dissolution rate of CorGlaes. When an active metal is included in the manufacture it becomes part of the molecular structure of the glass and is held there until the CorGlaes is exposed to an aqueous environment, at which point it is released as an ion at a controlled rate.
CorGlaes allows for the controlled and consistent delivery of silver ions, which prolongs the antimicrobial benefit and minimises the amount of silver required with both environmental and economic benefits. Giltech plans to carry out clinical trials for a nasal ointment and bodywash containing silver ions in summer 2010.
“We believe the products that we are developing will be highly effective in combating MRSA bacteria, helping to prevent the spread of these potentially deadly microbes in both the hospital and community environments,” said Gillian Watson, managing director of Giltech. “Giltech’s unique delivery technology allows the managed release of silver ions over a period of time, providing both instant and ongoing protection, as well as both environmental and consumer benefits not currently available with other products.”
“This new approach of silver ion technology offers enticing promises for better patient safety and I look forward to testing its potential,” added Dr Bob Masterton of NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
In the UK, it is estimated that 300,000 patients will develop a HAI each year and it will be the leading cause of death for more than 5,000 patients. www.giltech.biz
