Bactericidal efficiency of micro- and nanostructured surfaces: a critical perspective

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Microbiology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Micro/nanostructured surfaces (MNSS) offer physical methods for bacterial inactivation.
• Extensive research has explored MNSS for antimicrobial applications over the last decade.
• Surface characteristics significantly influence the bactericidal efficiency of MNSS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review surface factors affecting bactericidal efficiency of MNSS.
• To critically evaluate bacterial viability quantification methods on MNSS.
• To propose improved assessment conditions for MNSS efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on MNSS and bacterial inactivation.
• Analysis of factors like surface hydrophobicity and bacterial species interactions.
• Critique of current bacterial viability assays on MNSS.
• Discussion of fluid flow dynamics and their impact on bacterial behavior.

Main Results:

• Surface hydrophobicity's influence on bactericidal effects varies with bacterial species.
• Existing static bacterial viability assays have limitations and do not reflect real-world application conditions.
• Bacterial behavior differs significantly under static versus dynamic fluid flow conditions.

Conclusions:

• Bactericidal efficacy of MNSS should be assessed under relevant fluid flow conditions, considering shear stress and flow rate.
• Future research should focus on designing MNSS with varying experimental conditions, including fluid flow.
• Standardized and relevant testing protocols are needed for accurate MNSS evaluation.