Tractivus

Tractivus, a biomedical company headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, was founded in 2015. It emerged from a collaboration between the Materials R&D Department at IQS and the Pneumology R&D Department at IDIBELL. The company operates within the biotechnology and medical device industries, focusing on creating implantable medical devices with properties that resist bacterial infection.

The core of Tractivus's business is its patented technology that applies nanostructures to the surface of medical devices. This surface modification is designed to prevent bacteria from attaching and forming biofilms, a common and serious complication with implants. By inhibiting bacterial colonization, the technology aims to extend the lifespan of devices, reduce healthcare costs associated with post-implantation infections, and improve patient outcomes without causing adverse effects. Initial product development has centered on devices like tracheal stents and urinary catheters, which have high rates of bacterial colonization.

The founding team includes CEO Joan Gilabert, a biochemist and specialist in biomaterials; CTO Robert Texido Bartes, a chemical engineer with expertise in biomaterials and 3D printing; CSO Salvador Borrós Gómez, a professor with extensive experience in materials; and COO Víctor Ramos Pérez, a professor specializing in biomaterials and pharmacology. The company's business model revolves around the research, development, and eventual commercialization of these advanced medical devices for healthcare professionals and hospitals. Tractivus has secured funding through various channels, including venture capital and equity crowdfunding, raising approximately $483K in one round in June 2019 from investors like Ship2B, Startup Capital Ventures, RETOS y Colaboración, and RIS3CAT.

Keywords: medical devices, biotechnology, anti-bacterial coating, implantable devices, nanostructures, biofilm prevention, tracheal stent, urinary catheter, infection control, biomaterials, medtech, healthtech, life sciences, drug discovery, nanotech, medical research, coating technology, catheters, post-implantation complications, healthcare innovation