A Natural Biomolecule-Based Coating with Antifouling and Quorum-Sensing Inhibition Properties for Preventing Biofilm Formation

Biofilm-associated infections present a critical healthcare challenge due to antibiotic resistance and frequent medical implant colonization. Preemptive surface coatings with antibiofilm properties are thus critical, yet conventional antifouling coatings only delay initial bacterial adhesion and poorly inhibit long-term biofilm formation. This study develops a versatile all-natural coating, combining phase-transited bovine serum albumin (PTB) as a structural matrix and a natural quorum-sensing inhibitor quercetin (Qe). The PTB framework delivers three core functions: stable adhesion to diverse substrates, immediate antifouling effects via reduced nonspecific protein/bacterial attachment, and sustained Qe release. Released Qe disrupts bacterial communication to inhibit biofilm maturation without bactericidal effects. Targeting both initial adhesion and maturation, this dual-action coating achieves broad-spectrum, prolonged antibiofilm activity against clinically significant pathogens, including <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> and <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>. Its all-natural components ensure excellent cytocompatibility, rendering this facilely fabricated coating a safe, promising solution for biomedical antibiofilm applications.