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Light-activated antimicrobial coatings: the great potential of organic photosensitizers
Karolina Socha1, Ivan Gusev1, Patryk Mroczko1
1Silesian University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry Strzody 9 Gliwice 44-100 Poland agata.blacha@polsl.pl.
Abstract:
Contamination of inanimate surfaces with microorganisms is considered one of the routes for transmission of pathogens, which is a matter of concern not only in healthcare-related facilities, but also in public areas. Durable antimicrobial coatings have emerged as the one of most promising strategies for reducing the accumulation of microorganisms on high-touch surfaces. Light-activated antimicrobial layers are of particular interest for such a purpose, as they generate singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species that are effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In this review, the antimicrobial coatings containing organic photosensitizers are discussed, focusing on the recent advances in the strategies for PSs' immobilization on solid surfaces. The review attempts to assess the advantages and limitations of those systems, and the challenges that still need to be overcome.
Insights
Antimicrobial coatings with organic photosensitizers offer a promising strategy to combat pathogen transmission on surfaces. These light-activated layers generate reactive oxygen species, effectively eliminating microbes and reducing contamination risks.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Microbiology
- Photochemistry
Background:
- Pathogen transmission via contaminated surfaces is a significant public health concern in healthcare and public spaces.
- Durable antimicrobial coatings are a key strategy to prevent microbial accumulation on high-touch surfaces.
- Light-activated antimicrobial layers are particularly effective due to their generation of reactive oxygen species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in light-activated antimicrobial coatings utilizing organic photosensitizers.
- To focus on strategies for immobilizing photosensitizers onto solid surfaces.
- To assess the advantages, limitations, and future challenges of these antimicrobial systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific publications on photosensitizer-based antimicrobial coatings.
- Analysis of immobilization strategies for organic photosensitizers on various substrates.
- Evaluation of the efficacy and limitations of light-activated antimicrobial systems.
Main Results:
- Organic photosensitizers can be effectively immobilized on surfaces to create light-activated antimicrobial layers.
- These coatings generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light exposure, demonstrating broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
- Various immobilization techniques offer different advantages and face specific challenges regarding durability and efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Light-activated antimicrobial coatings with immobilized organic photosensitizers show significant potential for reducing surface contamination.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges related to long-term stability, cost-effectiveness, and large-scale application.
- Optimizing photosensitizer immobilization is crucial for developing robust and efficient antimicrobial surface solutions.
