Innovative Polymeric Coatings with Dual Antifouling and Light-Activated Bactericidal Functions for Urinary Catheter Applications

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) present significant health risks in medical settings, necessitating innovative solutions to prevent bacterial colonization on catheter surfaces. This study introduces a novel polymeric coating with dual antifouling and light-activated bactericidal properties to enhance the bactericidal efficacy of urinary catheters. The coatings were synthesized using a one-step process involving pyrogallol chemistry to deposit a copolymer composed of zwitterionic sulfobetaine for antifouling and sodium copper chlorophyllin, a photosensitizer that generates reactive oxygen species under light exposure to effectively kill bacteria. We evaluated the antifouling properties, cytocompatibility, and bactericidal performance of the coatings under various light conditions. The results showed significant reductions in bacterial adhesion, with light activation further endowing the catheter with bactericidal effects. Additionally, light could be delivered through an optical fiber within the catheter lumen to target and kill bacteria. The innovative coating using light-activated bactericidal action offers a promising approach to preventing CAUTIs, representing a potential breakthrough in developing safer and more effective urinary catheters.