Using Catechol and Zwitterion-Functionalized Copolymers to Prevent Dental Bacterial Adhesion

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Surface Science

Background:

• Dental materials require robust antifouling properties to prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.
• Hydroxyapatite, a key component of dental enamel, presents a challenging surface for coating adhesion and biofouling resistance.
• Developing functional coatings with tailored adhesive and antifouling characteristics is crucial for advanced oral care applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize zwitterionic copolymers for antifouling coatings on hydroxyapatite.
• To investigate the impact of copolymer composition (catechol methacrylate to methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine ratio) on coating properties.
• To evaluate the adhesive and antibiofouling performance of these coatings in simulated oral conditions.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of catechol methacrylate (Cat-MA) and methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) copolymers.
• Characterization using ellipsometry, contact angle goniometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
• In vitro assessment of bacterial adhesion (Escherichia coli, Streptococcus oralis) and performance under simulated oral conditions (swallowing, mouthwash).

Main Results:

• Hydrophilic copolymer coatings with approximately 10 nm thickness were successfully formed on hydroxyapatite.
• The synthesized copolymers demonstrated adhesion to hydroxyapatite surfaces.
• Significant reduction in the attachment of both Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. oralis) bacteria was observed.
• In vitro tests confirmed reduced S. oralis adhesion even after simulated mechanical and chemical challenges.

Conclusions:

• Zwitterionic copolymers with tunable catechol-to-zwitterion ratios offer a promising strategy for designing effective antifouling dental coatings.
• These functional coatings exhibit excellent adhesion to hydroxyapatite and robust resistance to bacterial colonization in the oral environment.
• The findings provide valuable insights for the rational design of advanced biomaterials for oral care applications.