Impact of light-activated curcumin and curcuminoids films for catheters decontamination

Biofilms are microbial communities protected by an extra polymeric matrix, which promotes a defense against antimicrobial agents. Cells attached in surfaces and promote infections. Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is one of the strategies to eliminate infections due to the facility of use and the absence of resistance by bacteria. The study combines formulation with curcuminoids and with Photogem^(R), illuminating them with 450 nm and 630 nm, respectively.

Films were prepared with pectin, glycerin, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, curcumin, curcuminoids, or Photogem^(R) (0.75; 0.75 mg/mL and 0.03 mg/mL respectively). Bacterial biofilms were formed during 3, 4, or 7 days on catheters and illumination with LED devices at 450 nm and 630 nm.

The best PDI applied in S. aureus 7-days biofilm with curcuminoid film. Photogem film was the best strategy for PDI in E. coli 7-day biofilm. Curcumin film promoted similar results with S. aureus and E. coli. Light penetration demonstrated a similar decreased exponential curve along the increase of thickness of biofilm.

Curcuminoids, curcumin and Photogem® show efficient solubilization and availability in formulation with relevant results in PDI. S aureus biofilms were more susceptible to curcuminoid film. E coli biofilms were more susceptible to Photogem film.