Emerging rules for effective antimicrobial coatings

Trends Biotechnol. 2014 Feb;32(2):82-90. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2013.09.008. Epub 2013 Oct 28.

Abstract

In order to colonize abiotic surfaces, bacteria and fungi undergo a profound change in their biology to form biofilms: communities of microbes embedded into a matrix of secreted macromolecules. Despite strict hygiene standards, biofilm-related infections associated with implantable devices remain a common complication in the clinic. Here, the application of highly dosed antibiotics is problematic in that the biofilm (i) provides a protective environment for microbes to evade antibiotics and/or (ii) can provide selective pressure for the evolution of antibiotic-resistant microbes. However, recent research suggests that effective prevention of biofilm formation may be achieved by multifunctional surface coatings that provide both non-adhesive and antimicrobial properties imparted by antimicrobial peptides. Such coatings are the subject of this review.

Keywords: anti-infective coatings; antimicrobial peptides; biofilms; implant infections; low-fouling polymers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Infective Agents / pharmacology*
  • Bacteria / drug effects*
  • Bacteria / growth & development
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control*
  • Equipment and Supplies / microbiology*
  • Fungi / drug effects*
  • Fungi / growth & development
  • Infection Control / methods*
  • Surface Properties*

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents