Modulating Antibacterial Properties Using Nanotechnology

Abstract

Solid materials entering into contact with liv­ ing systems may bring with them infections, which are caused by microorganisms that first adhere to the surface and then start to colo­ nize and form biofilms [1,2]. This is the case, for instance, for implantable medical devices, such as intravascular catheters, pacemakers, ventricular devices, voice prostheses, dental and orthopedic implants. Conversely, soft materials made of entangled fibers (e.g., paper, tissues and nonwoven fabrics) may originate similar prob­ lems in different environments, such as food packaging, dermal contact and surgery. From the material science point of view, the strate­ gies needed to overcome the growth of bacte­ rial colonies change dramatically depending on whether the material has a continuous surface or it consists of entangled fibers. Highly controlled surface nanotopography is the key method to avoid bacteria adhesion in solid materials having proper surfaces, whereas encapsulation of the fibers into metal/polymer nanocomposites seems to be a highly efficient way to make entangled materials safe. The development of such innovative nano­ technologies is somewhat at the early stage and requires extensive interdisciplinary studies to elucidate how the physicochemical properties of materials can regulate the responses of biologi­ cal entities [3,4], the central question concerning the understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms occurring at the interface between nanostructures and living matter.