Single-Chain Nanoparticle-Based Coatings with Improved Bactericidal Activity and Antifouling Properties

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Infectious Disease Research

Background:

• Implant-associated infections are a significant clinical challenge.
• Existing antibacterial surfaces require improved bactericidal and antifouling capabilities.
• Dual-function surfaces offer a promising strategy for infection prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate novel dual-function antibacterial coatings with enhanced properties.
• To compare the performance of linear block copolymer (LP-KF) and single-chain nanoparticle (NP-KF) coatings.
• To assess the *in vitro* and *in vivo* efficacy and biocompatibility of these coatings.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of linear block copolymer (LP-KF) and single-chain nanoparticle (NP-KF) coatings using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and cationic polypeptide segments.
• Coating of polydopamine-modified PDMS surfaces via dipping.
• Evaluation of *in vitro* bactericidal activity against *Staphylococcus aureus* and *Escherichia coli*.
• Assessment of protein adsorption resistance, antibacterial adhesion, and cytotoxicity.
• Evaluation of *in vivo* anti-infective properties and histocompatibility.

Main Results:

• Both LP-KF and NP-KF coatings demonstrated >99.9% killing efficacy against tested bacteria.
• NP-KF coatings exhibited superior bactericidal and antifouling properties compared to LP-KF coatings.
• Coatings showed excellent protein adsorption resistance, reduced bacterial adhesion, and low cytotoxicity.
• *In vivo* studies confirmed significant anti-infective properties and good histocompatibility for NP-KF.

Conclusions:

• Single-chain nanoparticle coatings (NP-KF) represent an advanced approach to dual-function antibacterial surfaces.
• These coatings show significant potential for reducing implant-associated infections.
• NP-KF coatings are promising candidates for applications in biomedical devices and implants.