New strategies to fight bacterial adhesion

Abstract

Initial adhesion of bacteria to biomaterials' surface is assumed to be an important stage in their colonization which may to lead to severe infections and loss of medical devices. Thus, the knowledge of how these microorganisms adhere and which factors affect this phenomenon proves to be of great importance in order to avoid their colonization. Hydrophobicity, charge, roughness and chemical composition of surfaces can rule the adhesion process. A better understanding of all these features is crucial for an effective microorganism’s adhesion control. In this context, it is possible to modify the biomaterials’ surfaces through coatings doped with an antimicrobial agent, in order to prevent biofilm formation. So, this mini-review gives a brief account of aspects involved in bacterial attachment to a surface, highlighting the interactions involved and presenting mechanisms that are being used to fight pathogens adhesion. For this intent, hydrophobicity, morphology and topography of doped silver coatings will be exploited as a new approach for the development of antibacterial surfaces.