Bio-inspired biomaterial coating for enzyme responsive release of antimicrobial peptides
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Biofilm formation and implant-associated infections, potentially leading to periprosthetic bone loss and subsequent loss of osseointegration, remain high-risk factors for failure of implants. Consequently, the prevention of bacterial colonization on implant surfaces is of high interest. The development of multi-drug-resistant bacteria led to less effective infection prophylaxis using commonly used antibiotics. Functionalization of implant surfaces with antibacterial agents like antimicrobial peptides to reduce or even prevent bacterial adhesion is a promising perspective.Here, we report on the synthesis of a new peptide-based biomaterial coating. Two antimicrobial peptides, [Nle5]-SHAP1 and P5, were successfully coupled to a mussel-derived carrier peptide containing l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine and immobilized onto titanium and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL). Incorporation of specific linker sequences enabled protease-mediated release from the surface by matrix metalloproteinase 9 and 2 as well as by neutrophil elastase, enzymes that are frequently found in infected wounds. The antibacterial activity of the coating components was assessed individually as well as combined in a broth dilution assay set up. Reduction of bacterial growth has been shown after 4 h of incubation upon enzymatic release using PCL nanoparticles coated with the most promising candidate.All tested coatings were non-cytotoxic for eukaryotic osteogenic SaOS-2 and monocytic THP‑1 cells.This study offers a promising approach for functionalizing biomaterial surfaces with antimicrobial peptides, potentially reducing the incidence of implant-associated infections.
Source: Materials Today Bio
Institution: Leipzig University
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,400
Funder: Freistaat Sachsen
OpenAlex ID: W4411111645