Quaternary Ammonium Polymer Brush Biocoatings as Anti-Infection Surfaces

In this study, plasma chemistry and a “grafting-from” technique were used to modify the physicochemical composition of different biomaterials. More specifically, covalent bonds were formed from the surface of the biomaterial to the allyl group of an innovative cationic monomer. In doing so, we were able to engineer polymer brushes from the surface of a biomaterial, creating biocoatings that were stable, biocompatible, and active against adherent bacteria. We report that changes in polymer chain length and brush density confer differential activity against biofilms and bacteria. Studies further confirmed that the grafted surfaces could both avert bacterial adhesion and extirpate sessile organisms. Surface antimicrobial activity was confirmed in both stationary and microfluidic cultures to recapitulate indwelling catheter conditions. The data suggest that these brush biocoatings may prevent infections in medical devices and implants.