Antimicrobial coatings based on chitosan to prevent implant-associated infections: A systematic review

Rita Teixeira-Santos; Marta Lima; Luciana C Gomes; Filipe J Mergulhão

doi:10.1016/j.isci.2021.103480

Antimicrobial coatings based on chitosan to prevent implant-associated infections: A systematic review

iScience. 2021 Nov 22;24(12):103480. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103480. eCollection 2021 Dec 17.

Authors

Rita Teixeira-Santos¹, Marta Lima¹, Luciana C Gomes¹, Filipe J Mergulhão¹

Affiliation

¹ LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.

Abstract

Despite the advancements in material science and surgical techniques, the incidence of implant-associated infections (IAIs) has increased significantly. IAIs are mainly caused by microbial adhesion and biofilm formation on implant surfaces. In this study, we aimed to evaluate and critically discuss the antimicrobial efficacy of chitosan-based coatings to prevent the occurrence of IAIs. For this purpose, a PRISMA-oriented systematic review was conducted based on predefined criteria and forty studies were selected for qualitative analysis. Results indicated that chitosan (CS) association with enzymes and antimicrobial peptides improves its antimicrobial activity and extends its use in a broad range of physiological conditions. Likewise, CS association with polymers resulted in enhanced antimicrobial and anti-adhesive coatings with desirable properties, such as biocompatibility and durability, for implantable medical devices (IMDs). These findings can assist researchers in the design of new CS coatings for application in IMDs.

Keywords: Materials science; Microbiofilms.

Publication types

Review