Phage-bacterium war on polymeric surfaces: can surface-anchored bacteriophages eliminate microbial infections?

Biomacromolecules. 2013 May 13;14(5):1257-61. doi: 10.1021/bm400290u. Epub 2013 Apr 16.

Abstract

These studies illustrate synthetic paths to covalently attach T1 and Φ11 bacteriophages (phages) to inert polymeric surfaces while maintaining the bacteriophage's biological activities capable of killing deadly human pathogens. The first step involved the formation of acid (COOH) groups on polyethylene (PE) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surfaces using microwave plasma reactions in the presence of maleic anhydride, followed by covalent attachment of T1 and Φ11 species via primary amine groups. The phages effectively retain their biological activity manifested by a rapid infection with their own DNA and effective destruction of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus human pathogens. These studies show that simultaneous covalent attachment of two biologically active phages effectively destroy both bacterial colonies and eliminate biofilm formation, thus offering an opportunity for an effective combat against multibacterial colonies as well as surface detections of other pathogens.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Infections / prevention & control*
  • Biofilms
  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible / chemistry*
  • Escherichia coli / virology*
  • Humans
  • Maleic Anhydrides / chemistry
  • Plasma Gases
  • Polyethylene / chemistry
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene / chemistry
  • Staphylococcus Phages / chemistry*
  • Staphylococcus Phages / pathogenicity
  • Staphylococcus Phages / physiology
  • Staphylococcus aureus / virology*
  • T-Phages / chemistry*
  • T-Phages / pathogenicity
  • T-Phages / physiology
  • Viral Plaque Assay

Substances

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible
  • Maleic Anhydrides
  • Plasma Gases
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene
  • Polyethylene