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Florida Biotech
Florida research institutes are power players in biotech
The state's major researchers are getting comfortable and attracting millions in grant money.
SRI
St. Petersburg
[Photo: SRI] |
The marine technology unit of Silicon Valley-based SRI International is working on developing anti-microbial and anti-fouling products from marine species. Biofouling, the formation of biological films or adhesions to surfaces, occurs in the ocean when bacteria, algae, barnacles and blue mussels attach themselves to vessels, such as a ship's hull, and degrade their performance. Biofouling can also affect medical devices, instruments and implants by causing a bacterial buildup. While many current anti-biofouling technologies contain toxic compounds and environmentally hazardous agents, SRI is working to develop an environmentally benign, natural solution.