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Amoebicidal Activity of Poly-Epsilon-Lysine Functionalized Hydrogels.

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Functionalized poly-epsilon-lysine hydrogels (pɛK+) show significant Acanthamoeba castellanii killing activity. These pɛK+ hydrogels could potentially be used in contact lenses to prevent Acanthamoeba keratitis.

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Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Ophthalmology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a serious eye infection often associated with contact lens wear.
  • Current treatments for AK can be challenging due to the resilient nature of Acanthamoeba cysts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of functionalized poly-epsilon-lysine hydrogels (pɛK+) as an amoebicidal agent against Acanthamoeba castellanii.
  • To assess the potential of pɛK+ hydrogels for use in contact lenses to prevent AK.

Main Methods:

  • A. castellanii trophozoites and cysts were exposed to pɛK+ hydrogels in various media and for different durations.
  • Toxicity was assessed using propidium iodide staining and fluorescence microscopy.
  • Ex vivo porcine corneas were infected with A. castellanii and treated with pɛK+ hydrogels or commercial contact lenses to evaluate efficacy against infection.

Main Results:

  • pɛK+ hydrogels demonstrated significant toxicity against A. castellanii trophozoites (98.52% death at 24h) and cysts (up to 87.14% death).
  • In ex vivo models, pɛK+ hydrogels prevented A. castellanii presence in the cornea stroma and inhibited regrowth.
  • No Acanthamoeba regrowth was observed from pɛK+ hydrogels or treated corneas.

Conclusions:

  • Functionalized poly-epsilon-lysine hydrogels exhibit potent amoebicidal and cysticidal activity.
  • pɛK+ hydrogels show promise for development into contact lenses to reduce the risk of AK.