Chemistry

Biography

Biography: Hanna P. Steinmetz

Abstract

There has been increased concern during the past few decades over the role bacterial biofilms play in causing a variety of health problems, especially since they exhibit a high degree of resistance to antibiotics and are able to survive in hostile environments. Biofilms consist of bacterial aggregates enveloped by a self-produced matrix attached to the surface. Ca²⁺ ions promote the formation of biofilms, and enhance their stability, viscosity, and strength. Bisphosphonates exhibit a high affinity for Ca²⁺ ions, and may inhibit the formation of biofilms by acting as sequestering agents for Ca²⁺ ions. Although the antibacterial activity of bisphosphonates is well known, research into their anti-biofilm behavior is still in its early stages. In this study, we describe the synthesis of a new thin coating composed of poly (styryl bisphosphonate) grafted onto oxidized polypropylene films for anti-biofilm applications. This grafting process was performed by graft polymerization of styryl bisphosphonate vinylic monomer onto O₂ plasma-treated polypropylene films. The surface modification of the polypropylene films was confirmed using surface measurements, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and water contact angle goniometry. Significant inhibition of biofilm formation was achieved for both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.