Alkyne functionalized cellulose fibers: A versatile "clickable" platform for antibacterial materials

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Cellulose fibers (CFs) are versatile biomaterials with potential in various applications.
• Functionalization of CFs is crucial for advanced applications, including drug delivery.
• Click chemistry offers efficient conjugation strategies for modifying biomaterials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a facile and effective method for fabricating alkyne-functionalized cellulose fibers (ACFs).
• To prepare antibacterial-modified cellulose fibers using click chemistry for enhanced drug delivery.
• To investigate the loading and release characteristics of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (CipHCl) from modified fibers.

Main Methods:

• In situ chemical oxidation copolymerization of 3-ethynylaniline and aniline to create ACFs.
• Binding of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) to ACFs via click chemistry.
• Loading and release studies of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (CipHCl).
• Antibacterial activity testing against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

Main Results:

• A rapid method (6 hours) was established for ACF preparation, significantly reducing time.
• ACFs functionalized with β-CD showed remarkably increased CipHCl loading capacity.
• The release of CipHCl from the modified fibers was prolonged compared to controls.
• The ACFs@Azide-β-CD loaded with CipHCl demonstrated superior and sustained antibacterial activity.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides an efficient route to clickable, functionalized cellulose fibers.
• The ACFs@Azide-β-CD system is a promising platform for enhanced antibacterial drug delivery.
• This approach offers potential for developing advanced wound dressings and antimicrobial materials.