Novel bactericidal surface: Catechin‐loaded surface‐erodible polymer prevents biofilm formation

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Abstract
We developed a novel bactericidal surface based on a catechin‐loaded surface‐erodible polymer. (−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCg), which is the main constituent of tea catechins, showed a dose‐dependent inhibitory effect on Escherichia coli biofilm formation and a dose‐dependent enhanced destructive effect on biofilm. EGCg‐immobilized surfaces were prepared by photopolymerization of liquid biodegradable polyesters. The releasing rate was enhanced with an increase in surface‐erosion rate of photocured polymers. Polymers with high releasing capacity dose‐dependently reduced biofilm formation on the surfaces. The confocal laser scanning microscopic and scanning electron microscopic observations revealed that EGCg induced biofilm‐destructing activities, which include bacterial membrane damage, degradation of exopolysaccharides, and detachment of colonized cells. From these results, potential advantages of the clinical use of catechin‐loaded polymer‐coated implants or catheters are discussed in terms of a reduced occurrence of biomaterial‐centered infections without substantial toxicity or adverse effects. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2005