Title
Bacteria Adhesion Is Mechanosensitive To Polymer Gel Properties
Conference Dates
July 21-24, 2019
Abstract
Biofilm-related infections are a class of notoriously difficult to treat healthcare-associated infections, which commonly develop on the surface of implanted medical devices. Despite lacking visual, auditory, and olfactory perception, bacteria detect and settle on surfaces, however, how the intrinsic properties of materials affect the initial adhesion microorganisms remains relatively unknown. By unveiling the structure-property relationships between polymer materials and microbial adhesion, we could guide the design of materials a priori to resist the adhesion of infection causing microorganisms, such as Staphylococcus aureus. In this presentation, I will discuss the effect that fundamental properties of polymer coatings (i.e., molecular architecture, stiffness, and thickness) have on the surface-associated transport of bacteria and on the adhesion of bacteria under quiescent conditions. By decoupling the effects of molecular architecture, stiffness, and thickness from coating chemistry, we have unlocked specific structure-property relationships that can be tailored to control the degree of bacterial adhesion and subsequently, reduce the formation of biofilms. This work provides insight into the future design of bacteria-resistant surfaces with broad implications for applications including medical implants and equipment.
Recommended Citation
Jessica D. Schiffman and Irene S. Kurtz, "Bacteria Adhesion Is Mechanosensitive To Polymer Gel Properties" in "Colloidal, Macromolecular and Biological Gels II", Samiul Amin, Manhattan College, USA Saad Khan, North Carolina State University, USA Srini Raghavan, University of Maryland College Park, USA Eds, ECI Symposium Series, (2019). https://dc.engconfintl.org/cmb_gels_ii/36