In order to endow mesoporous bioactive glass, characterized by excellent bioactive properties, with additional biological functions, Cu-doped mesoporous SiO-CaO glass (Cu-MBG) in the form of nanoparticles was prepared by an ultra-sound assisted one pot synthesis. The analysis of the bacterial viability, using different bacterial strains, and the morphological observation of the biofilm produced by the Staphylococcus epidermidis, revealed the antimicrobial effectiveness of the Cu-MBG and the relative ionic extracts against both the bacterial growth and the biofilm formation/dispersion, providing a true alternative to traditional antibiotic systemic therapies. The proposed multifunctional agent represents a promising and versatile platform for bone and soft tissues regeneration.

Monolayers of gold nanostars (GNS) are grafted on mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane-coated glass slides. In the formed monolayers the localized surface plasmon resonance of GNS can be tuned in the 700-1100 nm range. Upon laser excitation of the nearIR LSPR an efficient photothermal response is observed, inducing local hyperthermia and efficient killing of Staphylococcus aureus biofilms.

26Ternary nano-biocomposite films based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) with modified cellulose 27 nanocrystals (s-CNC) and synthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag) have been prepared and 28 characterized. The functionalization of the CNC surface with an acid phosphate ester of ethoxylated 29 nonylphenol favoured its dispersion in the PLA matrix. The positive effects of the addition of 30 cellulose and silver on the PLA barrier properties were confirmed by reductions in the water 31 permeability (WVP) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of the films tested. The migration level of 32 all nano-biocomposites in contact with food simulants were below the permitted limits in both non-33 polar and polar simulants. PLA nano-biocomposites showed a significant antibacterial activity 34 influenced by the Ag content, while composting tests showed that the materials were visibly 35 disintegrated after 15 days with the ternary systems showing the highest rate of disintegration under 36 composting conditions. 37 38