In situ regeneration of bioactive coatings enabled by an evolved Staphylococcus aureus sortase A

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Enzyme Engineering

Background:

• Surface immobilization of bioactive molecules is crucial for implantable devices and biosensors.
• In vivo degradation limits the long-term performance of current bioactive films.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for repeatedly regenerating immobilized bioactive films.
• To enhance the longevity and in vivo performance of medical device coatings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a laboratory-evolved Staphylococcus aureus sortase A (eSrtA) for reversible transpeptidation.
• Developed a two-step stripping and recharging cycle for film regeneration.
• Tested regeneration in the presence of whole blood and in situ after implantation.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated repeated regeneration of covalently immobilized monomolecular films.
• Preserved biological activity of anti-thrombogenic films through multiple regeneration cycles.
• Showcased in situ surface re-engineering of medical devices post-implantation.

Conclusions:

• Established a rapid, orthogonal, and reversible biochemical scheme for regenerating bioactive films.
• The eSrtA-mediated approach has the potential to significantly extend the lifetime of bioactive films on medical devices.
• This method enables surface modification and restoration of medical devices in vivo.