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Positively charged biomaterials exert antimicrobial effects on gram-negative bacilli in rats
Bart Gottenbos1, Henny C van der Mei, Flip Klatter
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands.
Biomaterials
|April 25, 2003
Summary
Positively charged biomaterials reduced Escherichia coli infections in rats, but not Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This suggests charge influences bacterial infection differently, with P. aeruginosa potentially overcoming positive surface charges.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Biomaterial-centered infections are a significant complication of medical implants.
- Positively charged surfaces may inhibit Gram-negative bacilli adhesion and growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the infection rates of differently charged poly(methacrylates) in a rat model.
- To determine the effect of surface charge on bacterial colonization and viability.
Main Methods:
- Glass discs coated with charged poly(methacrylates) were seeded with Escherichia coli or Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Discs were implanted subcutaneously in rats for 48 hours.
- Bacterial viability on implant surfaces was quantified.
Main Results:
- Positively charged poly(methacrylates) showed no viable E. coli on 50% of surfaces, while all negatively charged discs were colonized.
- P. aeruginosa was isolated from both positively and negatively charged discs.
- E. coli infection was significantly reduced on positively charged surfaces.
Conclusions:
- Surface charge significantly impacts E. coli colonization, with positive charges offering protection.
- P. aeruginosa may evade the antimicrobial effects of positive charges, possibly through extracellular polysaccharide production.
- Biomaterial surface charge is a critical factor in preventing specific bacterial infections.