Evaluation of Surface Microtopography Engineered by Direct Laser Interference for Bacterial Anti-Biofouling

Abstract

Modification of the biomaterial surface topography is a promising strategy to prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. In this study, we use direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) to modify polystyrene surface topography at sub-micrometer scale. The results revealed that three-dimensional micrometer structures have a profound impact on bacterial adhesion. Thus, line- and pillar-like patterns enhanced S. aureus adhesion, whereas complex lamella microtopography reduced S. aureus adhesion in static and continuous flow culture conditions. Interestingly, lamella-like textured surfaces retained the capacity to inhibit S. aureus adhesion both when the surface is coated with human serum proteins and when the material is implanted subcutaneously in a foreign-body associated infection model.

Direct Laser Interference Patterning of Bioceramics: A Short Review

“…On the other hand, complex 3-D patterns (lamella-like) prevented biofilm formation [45]. Similar results were achieved by Valle et al, who showed that pillar and line topographies produced via DLIP increase bacteria adhesion to polymers compared to non-patterned samples, while more irregular and complex lamellar topography reduced adhesion [46]. Furthermore, Langheinrich et al studied cell growth behavior over polyimide patterned with substrates using DLIP to fabricate line-like arrays, showing that the cells aligned to the pattern direction, i.e., they sensed and responded to the change of topology induced by the laser patterning.…”

Direct laser interference patterning for decreased bacterial attachment

“…Images from confocal microscopy of PS polymeric surfaces structured by DLIP technique. Periodic arrays of (a) linelike (LN) with P = 5 µm, (b) pillar-like (PL) with P = 5 µm, and (c) lamella-like (LA) structures with P = 2 µm [30] .…”

Design of Nanostructured Functional Coatings by Using Wet-Chemistry Methods

“…Topographical modification of the resultant surfaces with nano-and microstructures has emerged as a potential tool for the fabrication of functionalized surfaces with antibacterial properties [100]. Some of the technologies usually applied for fabrication of antibacterial surfaces via surface micro-and nanostructuring are chemical etching (Black Silicon), physical vapor deposition (PVD), plasma irradiation, hydrothermal treatments, photolithography, electron-beam lithography and ablation by ultrashort pulsed lasers [101][102][103][104][105][106][107]. In Table 4, the advantages and disadvantages of these micro and nano-patterning technologies are shown.…”