Inhibition of Orthopaedic Implant Infections by Immunomodulatory Effects of Host Defense Peptides
Abstract
Host defense peptides represent a promising new approach to inhibit infection. The anti-infective actions of these peptides are primarily due to their immunomodulatory effects. Since they regulate multiple aspects of the mammalian immune system, host defense peptides are also less likely to induce bacterial resistance than are traditional antibiotics. The local delivery of anti-bacterial agents allows for both high local concentrations to increase efficacy and low systemic levels to reduce toxicity. A promising strategy for the local delivery of anti-bacterial agents is to bind them directly to the surfaces of orthopaedic implants. The progress in the first year of this project has created a strong foundation for more rapid progress in the subsequent years to test our hypotheses that: 1. Soluble host defense peptides reduce infection of orthopaedic implants. 2. Host defense peptides bound to orthopaedic implant surfaces reduce infection. The host defense peptides have the potential to substantially reduce infections of fractures sustained on the battlefield and in civilian settings. If the synthetic peptide reduces infections in the studies proposed in this application, more extensive pre-clinical testing would precisely determine its potential benefits and risks and determine whether the peptide is a high priority for human trials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA555797
Entities
People
- Edward M. Greenfield
Organizations
- Case Western Reserve University