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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: EP/I027602/1
Title: Encapsulated phage for treatment of burns and wound site infections
Principal Investigator: Jenkins, Professor A
Other Investigators:
Arnot, Dr TC
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Biocontrol Ltd Frenchay Hospital
Department: Chemistry
Organisation: University of Bath
Scheme: Standard Research
Starts: 02 May 2011 Ends: 01 May 2015 Value (£): 657,968
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Biological & Medicinal Chem. Chemical Biology
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Healthcare
Related Grants:
Panel History:
Panel DatePanel NameOutcome
23 Nov 2010 Healthcare Partnerships Announced
Summary on Grant Application Form
This project, in partnership with Biocontrol Ltd and the departments of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at the University of Bath, will encapsulate specific lytic phages within phospholipid vesicles, and incorporate the vesicles into a prototype burn / wound dressing and a topical aqueous cream. The primary focus of the work is in the prevention of infection of paediatric burns, where our clinical partner, Dr Amber Young at the South West Paediatric Burns Centre, Frenchay hospital will provide expertise. The vesicles will be designed such that they both will stabilize the phage over time i.e. when stored, but only release their contents following exposure to secreted toxins and enzymes from pathogenic bacteria. The aim of this project is to reduce the risk of infection from burns and other injuries by making a 'smart' dressing, based on phage therapeutics.38,000 children on average suffer burn injuries in England and Wales each year, of which 55% are scalds. Most are small in area, 80% are in children under five years and the majority are due to hot drink spillages. One of the primary problems in the treatment of burns is bacterial infection, which can delay healing, increase pain; increase the risk of scarring and in some cases cause death. In recent years there have been great improvements in the treatment of burns, particularly with biologically-derived dressings which actively promote cell growth. However, the problem of infection has not gone away, and there is evidence that silver treated antimicrobial dressings can delay burn healing.
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Further Information:  
Organisation Website: http://www.bath.ac.uk