Photoactivated antimicrobial activity of carbon nanotube-porphyrin conjugates

We report the design of antimicrobial nanocomposite films based on conjugates of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) and protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) that are highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) upon irradiation with visible light. S. aureus infections can lead to life-threatening situations, especially when caused by antibiotic-resistant strains. While the light-activated antimicrobial activity of porphyrins against such pathogens is well-known, a facile way to incorporate porphyrins into coatings may lead to their more effective use. To that end, we decided to synthesize and characterize MWNT-PPIX conjugates which combine the biocidal capacity of porphyrins with the mechanical strength of MWNTs. The conjugates could effectively deactivate S. aureus cells in solution upon irradiation with visible light. We also designed large area nanocomposite films comprised of the MWNT-PPIX conjugates that showed potent antimicrobial activity. These MWNT-PPIX conjugates represent a facile strategy for the design of antimicrobial and antifouling coatings.