Winston-Salem, N.C., September 30, 2011 – KeraNetics LLC announced today that it has been awarded an SBIR Phase I contract from the US Army for development of biomaterials that enhance wound healing and have anti-microbial capabilities. “This project will utilize the advantages of keratin biomaterials to control the release of antimicrobial agents which will provide a tool for first responders and combat medics to decrease infection rates and healing times in our nation’s warfighters.” said Dr. Seth Tomblyn, Formulation Scientist and Principal Investigator for the project.

Dr. Luke Burnett, Director of Product Development and Research for the Company, said “Keratins are unique because they have broad biocompatibility and can be formulated into a wide variety of materials that can potentially be used as therapeutic delivery systems to aid in the repair or replacement of bone or muscle tissue”.

Dr. Justin Saul, Associate Professor at Miami University and Co-Investigator for the project, added “I am excited to lead the effort for this work at Miami University. We have had promising results in using keratin for antimicrobial applications and this award will facilitate our efforts to translate the technology toward clinical applications.”