Dynamically crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane-based polyurethanes with contact-killing antimicrobial properties as...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Urology

Background:

• Urinary bladder reconstruction faces challenges with current autologous gastrointestinal grafts due to complications.
• There is a significant need for advanced biomaterials to serve as functional substitutes for urinary tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel antimicrobial polydimethyl siloxane-modified polyurethanes (TPU/PDMS) for urological implants.
• To evaluate the viscoelastic properties, antimicrobial efficacy, and biocompatibility of the developed TPU/PDMS blends.

Main Methods:

• In situ crosslinking methodology was used to integrate varying contents of PDMS into a polyurethane matrix.
• Chemical strategies were employed to covalently incorporate quaternized moieties for antimicrobial activity.
• Bacterial growth reduction was assessed in artificial urine, and fibroblast viability was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Compatibilized TPU/PDMS blends demonstrated clinically relevant viscoelastic properties suitable for high pressure and distension.
• Modified compositions exhibited contact-killing surfaces, achieving a nearly three log reduction in bacterial growth.
• The antimicrobial TPU/PDMS blends supported viable fibroblast growth, comparable to medical-grade polyurethane.

Conclusions:

• The developed antimicrobial TPU/PDMS blends show significant promise as biomaterials for reconstructive urology.
• These materials offer a potential 'off-the-shelf' alloplastic substitute, simplifying surgical treatment for various urinary diseases.
• The versatility of these blends may extend to applications in artificial ureteral or urethral conduits.