Electrochemical eradication of microbes on surfaces of objects
Inventors
EHRENSBERGER, Mark • Campagnari, Anthony A. • Takeuchi, Esther • LUKE-MARSHALL, Nicole • Gilbert, Jeremy • Furlani, Edward P. • Titus, Albert H. • Mokhtare, Amir
Assignees
Syracuse University • Research Foundation of the State University of New York
Publication Number
US-11458216-B2
Publication Date
2022-10-04
Expiration Date
2029-08-03
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Abstract
The disclosure describes a method of reducing or preventing the growth of microbes on the surface of an object, wherein the object is of such material that it can act as a working electrode. The method comprises the steps of providing a counter electrode, and a reference electrode. The object is used as the working electrode. A first electrical current is passed through the working and counter electrodes. The first current through the counter electrode is varied such that a first electric potential of the working electrode is constant relative to the electric potential of the reference electrode. In some embodiments, a second electrical current is passed through the counter electrode such that a second electric potential of the working electrode is constant relative to the electric potential of the reference electrode.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a method and apparatus for reducing or preventing the growth of microbes, including biofilms, on the surface of objects capable of acting as working electrodes. The method involves using a three-electrode electrochemical configuration that includes a working electrode made of the target object, a counter electrode, and a reference electrode. A first electrical current is passed between the working and counter electrodes in such a way that the electric potential of the working electrode is held substantially constant relative to the reference electrode.
The constant electric potential applied to the working electrode can be positive, negative, or equal to the reference electrode potential, and can be controlled by a potentiostatic device. This control of potential is critical, as the voltage determines the electrochemical processes at the electrode surface, affecting microbial populations residing there. In various embodiments, the method can include subsequent or alternating applications of different potentials and treatment durations, allowing for pulsed or sequential application to enhance microbe reduction.
The problem addressed by this patent is the persistent or recurrent infections, notably those associated with biofilm formation on orthopedic and other medical implants, which are highly resistant to standard antimicrobial treatments. Current approaches like systemic antibiotics and revision surgeries have limited efficacy, especially against biofilm-associated microbes such as Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii. This new method offers an alternative by using precise voltage control to affect the microbial environment on surfaces, potentially reducing reliance on antibiotics and revision procedures.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes three independent claims, each detailing inventive features relating to electrochemical eradication of microbes by controlling electrode potential on implantable or implanted objects.
Treating microbe-laden surfaces using constant positive electrode potential
The inventive feature consists of: - Providing a reference electrode, a counter electrode, and using an implantable or implanted object as the working electrode. - Passing a first electrical current through the working and counter electrodes for a first length of time. - Varying the current such that the first electric potential of the working electrode is substantially constant and positive relative to the electric potential of the reference electrode.
Treating microbe-laden surfaces using constant negative electrode potential
The inventive feature comprises: - Providing a reference electrode, a counter electrode, and using an implantable or implanted object as the working electrode. - Passing a first electrical current through the working and counter electrodes for a first length of time. - Varying the current such that the first electric potential of the working electrode is substantially constant and negative relative to the electric potential of the reference electrode.
Sequential or multiple constant-potential treatments for microbe-laden implant surfaces
The inventive feature includes: - Providing a reference electrode, a counter electrode, and using an implantable or implanted object as the working electrode. - Passing a first electrical current through the working and counter electrodes for a first length of time, where the first electric potential of the working electrode is held substantially constant relative to the reference electrode. - Then passing a second electrical current through the working and counter electrodes for a second length of time, where the second electric potential of the working electrode is also held substantially constant relative to the reference electrode.
The independent claims focus on electrochemical treatment of implantable or implanted objects, utilizing constant positive or negative electric potentials relative to a reference electrode, and allowing for sequential applications of different potentials for microbe reduction.
Stated Advantages
The method allows for precise voltage-control of the working electrode, enabling accurate and immediate control of electrochemical processes at the electrode surface.
Applying a constant voltage rather than constant current reduces the treatment time needed for antimicrobial effect.
The method and apparatus can treat infections and eradicate biofilms without requiring antibiotics.
The system can be used after treating infection to switch into a voltage range that promotes bone healing.
The approach minimizes or prevents voltage drift that can trigger muscular firing or cause discomfort, as may occur in constant-current systems.
The method can be combined with antimicrobial agents for synergistic effects, potentially reducing the required dosage of antibiotics.
Documented Applications
Prevention and/or treatment of biofilm infections associated with orthopedic and dental implants, including hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and intervertebral disc replacements as well as spine fixation hardware.
Treatment and prevention of infections on external fixation pins and osseointegrated prosthetic limbs.
Durable medical equipment sterilization.
Sterilization and prevention of microbial growth in oil industry pipelines, maple syrup pipelines, water sanitation pipelines, and dairy production pipelines.
Sterilization of food services surfaces and utensils.
Sterilization and microbial prevention for HVAC components.
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