Empa Researchers Develop Nanocomplexes to Combat Antibiotic-Resistant Infections in Eye Surgery

Empa Researchers Develop Nanocomplexes to Combat Antibiotic-Resistant Infections in Eye Surgery

(IN BRIEF) Researchers at Empa and the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen are developing new nanocomplexes to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and protect eye tissue following cataract surgery. Supported by the Heinz A. Oertli Fund for Ophthalmology, these nanocomplexes, based on tannin and enhanced with toxin blockers and antimicrobial peptides, aim to eliminate harmful bacteria and prevent tissue damage. The project will test the nanocomplexes using an ex vivo eye infection model. This research is part of a broader initiative supported by the Heinz A. Oertli Fund to advance ophthalmological innovation.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜBENDORF, 6-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Researchers from Empa and the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen are tackling a serious challenge in eye surgery with the development of innovative nanocomplexes to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and protect eye tissue. This breakthrough is part of the Nanovision project, funded by the Heinz A. Oertli Fund for Ophthalmology. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, particularly those causing infections after cataract surgery, are a growing concern, as they can lead to severe complications and even blindness. Cataract surgery, one of the most frequently performed eye surgeries globally, has a very low complication rate, but when infections do occur, antibiotic-resistant germs pose a significant risk.

The goal of the Nanovision project is to create nanocomplexes capable of both neutralizing harmful bacterial toxins and eradicating resistant bacteria. These nanocomplexes are based on tannin, a plant-derived polyphenol with known antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, enhanced by toxin blockers and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). This multifaceted approach ensures that the treatment not only kills bacteria but also prevents tissue damage caused by bacterial toxins. Empa researcher Mihyun Lee, from the Biointerfaces lab in St. Gallen, leads the project, which aims to evaluate the nanocomplexes’ effectiveness using an ex vivo eye infection model.

The Heinz A. Oertli Fund has played a pivotal role in supporting several cutting-edge research initiatives at Empa, including the development of an intelligent glaucoma valve, innovative eye-wound sealing techniques, and a nature-inspired tissue adhesive to repair corneal injuries. The fund is dedicated to fostering young talent and supporting exceptional projects that may not yet be eligible for broader funding.

Empa’s Zukunftsfonds is actively seeking private donations to further support pioneering research and the talents behind these transformative projects.

Media Contacts:

Prof. Dr. Katharina Maniura
Biointerfaces
Phone +41 58 765 7447
Katharina.Maniura@empa.ch

Dr. Mihyun Lee
Biointerfaces
Phone +41 58 765 7134
Mihyun.Lee@empa.ch

Empa Zukunftsfonds:

Loris Pandiani
Empa Zukunftsfonds
Phone +41 58 765 47 03
loris.pandiani@empa.ch

Editor / Media contact:

Dr. Andrea Six
Communications
Phone +41 58 765 6133
redaktion@empa.ch

SOURCE: EMPA