Novel bioactive surface functionalization of bacterial cellulose membrane

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a biocompatible biopolymer with excellent mechanical and structural properties, suitable for biomedical applications.
• BC lacks intrinsic antibacterial properties, limiting its use in infection-prone environments.
• Functionalization strategies are needed to impart antibacterial activity to BC membranes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize functionalized bacterial cellulose (BC) membranes with enhanced antibacterial properties.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility of the functionalized BC membranes for potential use as biomaterials.
• To explore the utility of modified BC in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Main Methods:

• Functionalized BC membranes were synthesized and characterized using FTIR, SEM, and XPS.
• Surface wettability was assessed via static water contact angle measurements.
• Antibacterial efficacy was tested against *Escherichia coli*, *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Bacillus subtilis*, and *Candida albicans*.
• Biocompatibility was evaluated using HEK293 cell lines via MTT assay and confocal microscopy.

Main Results:

• Characterization confirmed successful functionalization of BC membranes.
• Functionalized membranes exhibited significant antibacterial activity against tested bacteria and fungi.
• The modified BC membranes demonstrated good biocompatibility with HEK293 cells.
• Surface wettability was altered by the functionalization process.

Conclusions:

• Functionalized BC membranes possess potent antibacterial properties and maintain good biocompatibility.
• These modified BC materials show considerable promise for applications in tissue implants and wound healing.
• The study highlights the potential of BC functionalization for developing advanced biomaterials.