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Facile Preparation of Anti Microbial Surfaces (Bar Ilan)

Summary

Polydopamine (PDA) is a polymer based on the chemical composition of mussel adhesive protein which mediates attachment to wet surfaces. The interfacial adhesive properties of PDA allows introduction of new functionalities, including anti-bacterial activity, even to inert surfaces. Development of a robust, inexpensive and biocompatible methodology for production of functionalized polydopamine would allow widespread use of this polymer in facile modification of various surfaces including, but not limited to, wound dressings, hospital furniture, clothing of infection prone individuals.The present technology allows for easy sonochemical synthesis of PDA nanocapsules by a short, one-step process that employs only non-toxic components and reagents. The method is low cost and scalable. When synthesized in the presence of copper, the resulting nanocapsules have demonstrated anti-bacterial and anti-fouling characteristics. Nanocapsules can be transported in a cost-efficient manner as a lyophilized powder and can be functionalized by surface modifications. The additional functionalities, such as anti-bacterial moieties, are expected to display high efficiency because of the relatively small capsule size achieved by this process and as a result of their clustering and orientation on the nanoparticle surface. Following functionalization, ready-to-use PDA nanoparticles can be developed for one-step application, together with attached functional moieties, as a “paint”, aerosol spray or gel. These application modalities would allow easy coverage of large surfaces and repeated on-site treatments, unlike with dip coating.
A patent application has been filed in the United States.
Commercial Significance:
The areas which may benefit from this technology are manifold and include, in addition to those mentioned above, medical device implants, such as indwelling catheters, food production surfaces, personal hygiene, tissue culture plastic. The main advantages of this technology include a facile and robust production method, low cost and the ability to modify large surfaces without the need for modern nanotech equipment.
Bar Ilan Research and Development Company is seeking to collaborate with an industrial partner to continue development of this technology. The first application of the technology will be determined together with a strategic partner and the requisite functionalizations and application modality will be developed accordingly.

ID No.

142

Country/Region

Israel