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Modified Castor Oil-Based Polyurethane Films with Streptomyces Extracts Presenting Anti-Methicillin-Resistant
Oscar T Rodriguez1,2, Luis E Diaz3, Manuel F Valero1
1Energy, Materials and Environment Group, Faculty of Engineering, Universidad de La Sabana, Chía 140013, Colombia.
Abstract:
Methicillin-resistant S. aureus is a problematic pathogen due to its high-risk infections and resistance mechanisms. To fight against this bacterium, novel antimicrobial sources and new delivery systems must be developed. Antimicrobial polyurethanes for developing biomaterials can function as preventive strategies. In this study, we explore the synthesis of partially renewable polyurethanes as biomaterial carriers of novel antimicrobials. An antibacterial extract from a Streptomyces sp. strain and its inclusion complexes with β-cyclodextrin, used as an additional protective approach, were incorporated into castor oil-based polyurethane films through bulk or surface loading. The inclusion complexes were characterized to confirm host-guest interactions. The films were characterized by FTIR, XRD spectra, surface SEM images, hydrophilicity, thermal stability, and mechanical performance. FTIR suggested successful polyurethane synthesis. The polymers were semicrystalline and thermally stable until 260 °C, and Tg ranged between -16.9 and -9 °C. Bulk modification decreased the mechanical performance of the films. Surface modification promoted good antibacterial performance but cytotoxic potential against HDFa cells. However, PU active films showed favorable properties and hemocompatibility, making them a promising alternative for applications such as short-term dressings, serving as an antimicrobial delivery system and a preventive strategy against methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
Insights
Researchers developed novel polyurethane biomaterials incorporating a natural antimicrobial extract to combat resistant bacteria. Surface modification showed promise for wound dressings, offering a new preventive strategy against dangerous infections.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Antimicrobial Agents
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) poses significant health risks due to its resistance.
- Development of novel antimicrobial delivery systems is crucial for combating MRSA infections.
- Antimicrobial polyurethanes offer potential as preventive biomaterials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize partially renewable polyurethanes as carriers for novel antimicrobials.
- To investigate the incorporation of a Streptomyces sp. extract and its β-cyclodextrin complexes into polyurethane films.
- To evaluate the properties and efficacy of these antimicrobial polyurethane films.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of castor oil-based polyurethanes.
- Incorporation of Streptomyces sp. extract and its β-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes via bulk or surface loading.
- Characterization using FTIR, XRD, SEM, and assessment of hydrophilicity, thermal stability, mechanical performance, antibacterial activity, and cytotoxicity.
Main Results:
- Successful polyurethane synthesis confirmed by FTIR.
- Polyurethanes exhibited semicrystalline nature and thermal stability up to 260 °C.
- Surface modification yielded good antibacterial performance against MRSA but showed some cytotoxicity; bulk modification reduced mechanical properties.
Conclusions:
- Polyurethane films with surface-loaded antimicrobials demonstrate favorable properties and hemocompatibility.
- These active films show potential as short-term dressings and antimicrobial delivery systems.
- They represent a promising preventive strategy against methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
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