Hybrid polycomplexes of anionic alginate with a synthetic cationic polymer: attractive and poisonous for microorganisms

Abstract

Negatively charged polycomplexes have been prepared by electrostatic complexation of synthetic cationic poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) with excess anionic sodium alginate. These polycomplexes exhibit pronounced antimicrobial activity due to the biodegradation of the alginate matrix and the release of the biocidal polycation. The results obtained are promising for the development of simultaneously attractive and toxic polymer constructs capable of destroying microorganisms.