Antimicrobial Properties of Plant Fibers

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAI), or nosocomial infections, are a global health and economic problem in developed and developing countries, particularly for immunocompromised patients in their intensive care units (ICUs) and surgical site hospital areas. Recurrent pathogens in HAIs prevail over antibiotic-resistant bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For this reason, natural antibacterial mechanisms are a viable alternative for HAI treatment. Natural fibers can inhibit bacterial growth, which can be considered a great advantage in these applications. Moreover, these fibers have been reported to be biocompatible and biodegradable, essential features for biomedical materials to avoid complications due to infections and significant immune responses. Consequently, tissue engineering, medical textiles, orthopedics, and dental implants, as well as cosmetics, are fields currently expanding the use of plant fibers. In this review, we will discuss the source of natural fibers with antimicrobial properties, antimicrobial mechanisms, and their biomedical applications.

A study on the antibacterial property and biocompatibility of ramie fiber

“…In addition, it is reported the RF could physically destroy the biofilm of bacteria [34], and our results showed it could prevent the adhesion of bacteria on its surface. It could effectively prevent the medical bacterial infection caused by drug-resistance bacteria [4].…”

“…In recent years, the increasingly widespread use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of multi drug-resistant bacteria. In order to reduce the use of antibiotics and the risk of medical-related infections caused by drugresistant pathogens, researchers have focused on natural plant fibers with antibacterial properties [4,5]. Ramie is one of the important natural fiber crops in China, which is called 'China grass' .…”

Processing and properties of jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) fibres and their sustainable composite materials: a review

“…5 Presently, the focus on protecting the environment has sparked interest in the research and fabrication of sustainable and bio-degradable materials. 6–19 Accordingly, thin films, plastics and adhesives have been replaced by lightweight, convenient and attractive materials in diverse applications. 20,21 Specifically, it is necessary to reduce the use of debris-creating pollution to maintain a safe and green environment.…”

Study and Characterization of Copper and Titanium Oxides Nanostructures for Some Molecular and Biological Applications

“…While bacterial colonization and biofilms on surfaces are directly connected to nosocomial and device-associated infections, they are often the main causes of death. Therefore, the importance of using nanoparticles as alternatives to other traditional methods such as antibiotics has emerged [1,2]. According to Mahapatra et al [3], the majority of the bacterial species isolated from pipelines, including Pseudomonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., and Klebsiella spp., were strong biofilm builders.…”