Adherence prevention and translocation restriction have been demonstrated and are believed to significantly reduce the risk of device-associated infections. Sharklet's topography creates
mechanical stress on settling bacteria, a phenomenon known as
mechanotransduction. The surface variations induce stress gradients within the plane, which disrupt normal cell functions, forcing the microorganism to adjust its contact area on each topographical feature to equalize the stresses. Sharklet is made, however, with the same material as other plastics. Sharklet
micro-patterns can be incorporated onto the surfaces of a variety of medical devices during the manufacturing process. Sharklet micro-patterns have been tested to control the bio-adhesion of
marine microorganisms,
pathogenic bacteria, and
eukaryotic cells. They reduce
S. aureus and
S. epidermidis colonization in a simulated
vascular environment by around 70% when compared to smooth controls. This micro-pattern similarly reduces
platelet adhesion and fibrin sheath formation by approximately 80%. An
in vitro study found that it reduced the colonization of
S. aureus and
P. aeruginosa bacterial
pathogens in a
central venous catheters-relevant
thermoplastic polyurethane. == See also ==