Antibacterial Soy Protein Isolate Prepared by Quaternization

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Soy protein isolate (SPI) is a versatile, eco-friendly protein with industrial and biomedical applications.
• Enhancing the antibacterial properties of SPI is crucial for developing safer and more effective products.
• Current applications of SPI could be expanded with improved functional characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize quaternized soy protein isolate (QSPI) with enhanced antibacterial properties.
• To evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of QSPI in vitro and in vivo.
• To assess the biocompatibility and wound healing potential of QSPI.

Main Methods:

• QSPI was synthesized via the reaction of 2,3-epoxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride (EPTMAC) with SPI.
• Antibacterial activity was tested against multiple bacterial strains in vitro and in vivo.
• Biocompatibility and wound healing were assessed using rat models.
• Water solubility of QSPI was analyzed across a broad pH range.

Main Results:

• QSPI demonstrated significant positive surface charge (17.8 ± 0.23 mV) due to quaternary ammonium groups.
• QSPI exhibited superior antibacterial properties against various bacteria.
• QSPI maintained good biocompatibility and accelerated bacterial-infected wound healing in rats.
• QSPI showed enhanced water solubility compared to native SPI across a wide pH spectrum.

Conclusions:

• QSPI is a promising derivative of soy protein isolate with potent antibacterial activity.
• The enhanced water solubility and biocompatibility of QSPI expand its application potential.
• QSPI offers a versatile platform for developing advanced materials in industry and tissue engineering.