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August 17, 2010

Nanotube-Enzyme Coating Kills MRSA Safely on Contact


According to a study in ACS (News - Alert) Nano, an innovative coating created by researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute killed 100 percent of MRSA on contact within 20 minutes. As tested, the nanoscale coating was combined with ordinary latex housepaint; it could also be combined with a variety of other finishes and used for surgical equipment, hospital walls, and other surfaces which might harbor MRSA.

Jonathan S. Dordick, director of Rensselaer’s Center for Biotechnology & Interdisciplinary Studies, highlighted some of the benefits of the coating. “We’re building on nature. Here we have a system where the surface contains an enzyme that is safe to handle, doesn’t appear to lead to resistance, doesn’t leach into the environment, and doesn’t clog up with cell debris. The MRSA bacteria come in contact with the surface, and they’re killed.”

The new coating is made with a naturally occurring enzyme, lysostaphin, combined with carbon nanotubes. Researchers discovered that enzymes attached to carbon nanotubes were more stable and densely packed, and less likely to “pop out” when embedded into polymers. The resulting conjugate is only toxic to MRSA, and does not rely on antibiotics. It can be washed repeatedly and has a six month shelf life. For further information on this medical nanotechnology innovation, visit the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.


Ms. Graham is a writer and editor with a current focus on health and wellness. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Erin Monda
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