Progress in Nanostructured Mechano-Bactericidal Polymeric Surfaces for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

Bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance remain significant contributors to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite recent advances in biomedical research, a substantial number of medical devices and implants continue to be plagued by bacterial colonisation, resulting in severe consequences, including fatalities. The development of nanostructured surfaces with mechano-bactericidal properties has emerged as a promising solution to this problem. These surfaces employ a mechanical rupturing mechanism to lyse bacterial cells, effectively halting subsequent biofilm formation on various materials and, ultimately, thwarting bacterial infections. This review delves into the prevailing research progress within the realm of nanostructured mechano-bactericidal polymeric surfaces. It also investigates the diverse fabrication methods for developing nanostructured polymeric surfaces with mechano-bactericidal properties. We then discuss the significant challenges associated with each approach and identify research gaps that warrant exploration in future studies, emphasizing the potential for polymeric implants to leverage their distinct physical, chemical, and mechanical properties over traditional materials like metals.

Recent Advances in Antibacterial Coatings to Combat Orthopedic Implant-Associated Infections

“…Those nano-protrusions cause bacterial cells to rupture without inducing any resistance, and without significant harm to mammalian cells [ 146 ]. Moreover, nanopatterned antimicrobial surfaces are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria without involving any antibacterial agents [ 145 , 146 , 147 ]. Such nano-patterned surfaces can be combined with soft materials to obtain more effective and long-lasting antibacterial coatings, and they may be used as innovative nanocatalytic therapies.…”