Infectious diseases are one of the leading causes of death and disability in the world. However, these infectious diseases are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to the growing abundance of antibiotic-resistant pathogens and insufficient development of new antibacterial agents. The development of novel and inexpensive treatment options is becoming increasingly important to help relieve such burdens.

Researchers at Arizona State University have identified a natural mineral mixture that exhibits in vitro antibacterial activity against a broad-spectrum of pathogenic organisms. However, the antibacterial activity of these natural minerals can vary widely. To standardize the antibacterial efficacy of the product, ASU researchers developed a solution that mimics the chemistry and antibacterial properties of the natural minerals and maintains antibacterial activity.

The antibacterial formulation is derived from natural products, is inexpensive and has broad-spectrum activity. Overall, this solution has great potential as a complementary or alternative topical antibacterial treatment.

Potential Applications

• Alternative topical antibacterial treatment
• Complement to traditional topical antibacterial treatments

Benefits and Advantages

• Meets needs important to consumers
  • Inexpensive
  • Based on natural products
• Achieves antibacterial activity without the use of traditional antibiotics
  • Efficacy against antibiotic-resistant bacteria
  • Broad-spectrum antibacterial product
• Topical antibacterial applications
  • Potential for promoting natural wound debridement and cutaneous healing
  • Potential generation of a moist and/or an absorptive environment

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For more information about the inventor(s) and their research, please see
Dr. Haydel's directory webpage
Dr. Haydel's departmental webpage
Dr. Haydel's laboratory webpage