Biofilm Eradication Using Physically Cross-linked Hydrogels Formed from Vitamin E-functionalized Polycarbonates

摘要

Biofilm formation has been recognized as one of the leading causes of a significant amount of human infections1. Microbes that grow in biofilms have been known to exhibit dramatically higher resistance against antimicrobial agents compared to free-floating cells2. Antimicrobial hydrogels, which are heavily hydrated networks of polymers possessing the ability to eliminate infectious microbes, are being exploited in many pharmaceutical applications, including medication, disinfectants, sanitizers and personal care products. In this study, we report the development of biodegradable hydrogels from vitamin E-functionalized polycarbonates for antimicrobial applications. These hydrogels were formed by incorporating positively-charged polycarbonates containing propyl (PrBr) and benzyl (BnCl) side chains with vitamin E moiety into physically cross-linked networks of ‘‘ABA’’-type polycarbonate and poly(ethylene glycol) triblock copolymers.