New research describes a needle-free spray-mist device that can deliver last-resort antibiotics directly into infected tissue. Hongmin Sun of the University of Missouri led the work and the team tested the approach in a recent study with help from an industry partner.
Researchers used the device to treat MRSA and to deliver vancomycin into infected tissue without producing typical side effects such as kidney damage. The spray-mist differs from topical creams, which can be wiped away, and from bloodstream delivery, which exposes organs to high drug levels.
The device uses a patented design and the findings support further study. The researchers say the technology could help in wound care for people with diabetic foot ulcers or soldiers injured in battle, and it could lead to future clinical trials as they seek FDA approval.
Difficult words
- antibiotic — drugs that kill or stop bacteria growthantibiotics
- vancomycin — an antibiotic used when others fail
- tissue — the material that makes up body parts
- deliver — to take something to a place or person
- topical — applied to the skin surface, not inside
- bloodstream — the flow of blood inside a person's body
- patent — to give legal protection for an inventionpatented
- clinical trial — research study to test medicines or treatmentsclinical trials
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you prefer a needle-free treatment for a wound? Why or why not?
- What are the main advantages of delivering antibiotics directly into infected tissue?
- How could this device change care for soldiers or people with diabetes?
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