Gels | Special Issue : Antibacterial Gels

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22 pages, 7639 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Development and Characterization of Thermosensitive and Bioadhesive Ophthalmic Formulations Containing Flurbiprofen Solid Dispersions

by Pınar Adısanoğlu and Işık Özgüney

Gels 2024, 10(4), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10040267 - 15 Apr 2024

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Abstract

In this study, we aimed to develop thermosensitive and bioadhesive in situ gelling systems containing solid dispersions of flurbiprofen (FB-SDs) using poloxamer 407 (P407) and 188 (P188) for ophthalmic delivery. FB-SDs were prepared with the melt method using P407, characterized by solubility, stability, [...] Read more.

In this study, we aimed to develop thermosensitive and bioadhesive in situ gelling systems containing solid dispersions of flurbiprofen (FB-SDs) using poloxamer 407 (P407) and 188 (P188) for ophthalmic delivery. FB-SDs were prepared with the melt method using P407, characterized by solubility, stability, SEM, DSC, TGA, and XRD analyses. Various formulations of poloxamer mixtures and FB-SDs were prepared using the cold method and P407/P188 (15/26.5%), which gels between 32 and 35 °C, was selected to develop an ophthalmic in situ gelling system. Bioadhesive polymers Carbopol 934P (CP) or carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were added in three concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% (w/w)). Gelation temperature and time, mechanical properties, flow properties, and viscosity values were determined. The in vitro release rate, release kinetics, and the release mechanism of flurbiprofen (FB) from the ophthalmic formulations were analyzed. The results showed that FB-SDs’ solubility in water increased 332-fold compared with FB. The oscillation study results indicated that increasing bioadhesive polymer concentrations decreased gelation temperature and time, and formulations containing CP gel at lower temperatures and in a shorter time. All formulations except F3 and F4 showed Newtonion flow under non-physiological conditions, while all formulations exhibited non-Newtonion pseudoplastic flow under physiological conditions. Viscosity values increased with an increase in bioadhesive polymer concertation at physiological conditions. Texture profile analysis (TPA) showed that CP-containing formulations had higher hardness, compressibility, and adhesiveness, and the gel structure of formulation F4, containing 0.6% CP, exhibited the greatest hardness, compressibility, and adhesiveness. In vitro drug release studies indicated that CP and CMC had no effect below 0.6% concentration. Kinetic evaluation favored first-order and Hixson–Crowell kinetic models. Release mechanism analysis showed that the n values of the formulations were greater than 1 except for formulation F5, suggesting that FB might be released from the ophthalmic formulations by super case II type diffusion. When all the results of this study are evaluated, the in situ gelling formulations prepared with FB-SDs that contained P407/P188 (15/26.5%) and 0.2% CP or 0.2% CMC or 0.4 CMC% (F2, F5, and F6, respectively) could be promising formulations to prolong precorneal residence time and improve ocular bioavailability of FB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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16 pages, 3872 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recent Trends in S. aureus and E. coli-Based Endometritis, and the Therapeutic Evaluation of Sodium Alginate-Based Antibiotics and Nanoparticles

by Muzammil Talib, Muhammad Ashir Nabeel, Shahbaz Ul Haq, Muhammad Salman Waqas, Huma Jamil, Amjad Islam Aqib, Afshan Muneer, Dalia Fouad and Farid Shokry Ataya

Gels 2023, 9(12), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9120955 - 05 Dec 2023

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Abstract

Postpartum infection of the uterus by pathogenic bacteria is exacerbated due to a lack of sufficient epidemiological studies and evidence-based therapeutics. Therefore, this study was planned to find the prevalence, risk factors, and drug-resistance profile of S. aureus and E. coli isolated from [...] Read more.

Postpartum infection of the uterus by pathogenic bacteria is exacerbated due to a lack of sufficient epidemiological studies and evidence-based therapeutics. Therefore, this study was planned to find the prevalence, risk factors, and drug-resistance profile of S. aureus and E. coli isolated from bovine endometritis and to evaluate the antibacterial potential of sodium alginate-based antibiotics and nanoparticles. The study revealed 34.21% S. aureus and 31.57% E. coli, whereas most of the assumed risk factors presented significant association in this study. S. aureus showed the highest resistance against fusidic acid (60%) and cefoxitin (50%), while the highest resistance in E. coli was found against fusidic acid (60%), gentamicin (60%), chloramphenicol (50%), and cefoxitin (50%). Tylosin coupled with MgO nanoparticles stabilized in sodium alginate gel (Tylo + MgO + gel) presented significantly lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against E. coli, showing 13.88 ± 4.51 µg/mL after 24 h incubation. On the other hand, gel-based preparations showed MIC as 31.25 ± 0 µg/mL (Tylo + gel + MgO) and 26.04 ± 9.02 µg/mL (Tylo + Gel) against S. aureus. Generally, the MICs of non-gel-based preparations were significantly higher against bacteria except ampicillin against S. aureus in this study. The toxicity analysis of MgO nanoparticles presented 20–80% mortality of snails against a wider range of 0.01 mg/mL–10 mg/mL. The histopathological parameters concluded MgO nanoparticles safe to use on off targets. The current study thus concludes the rise in antimicrobial resistance while the gel-based products appearing as effective antimicrobials with sufficient safety margins for off-targets. The study thus invites further investigation for the development of suitable and affordable modified therapeutics for better health and production of animals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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16 pages, 3945 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biosynthesis of Peptide Hydrogel–Titania Nanoparticle Composites with Antibacterial Properties

by Roya Binaymotlagh, Farid Hajareh Haghighi, Enea Gino Di Domenico, Francesca Sivori, Mauro Truglio, Alessandra Del Giudice, Ilaria Fratoddi, Laura Chronopoulou and Cleofe Palocci

Gels 2023, 9(12), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9120940 - 30 Nov 2023

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Abstract

The photoantibacterial properties of titania nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) are attracting much interest, but the separation of their suspension limits their application. In this study, the encapsulation of commercial TiO₂NPs within self-assembling tripeptide hydrogels to form hgel-TiO₂NP composites with [...] Read more.

The photoantibacterial properties of titania nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) are attracting much interest, but the separation of their suspension limits their application. In this study, the encapsulation of commercial TiO₂NPs within self-assembling tripeptide hydrogels to form hgel-TiO₂NP composites with significant photoantibacterial properties is reported. The Fmoc-Phe₃ hydrogelator was synthesized via an enzymatic method. The resulting composite was characterized with DLS, ζ-potential, SAXS, FESEM-EDS and rheological measurements. Two different concentrations of TiO₂NPs were used. The results showed that, by increasing the TiO₂NP quantity from 5 to 10 mg, the value of the elastic modulus doubled, while the swelling ratio decreased from 63.6 to 45.5%. The antimicrobial efficacy of hgel-TiO₂NPs was tested against a laboratory Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) strain and two methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) clinical isolates. Results highlighted a concentration-dependent superior antibacterial activity of hgel-TiO₂NPs over TiO₂NPs in the dark and after UV photoactivation. Notably, UV light exposure substantially increased the biocidal action of hgel-TiO₂NPs compared to TiO₂NPs. Surprisingly, in the absence of UV light, both composites significantly increased S. aureus growth relative to control groups. These findings support the role of hgel-TiO₂NPs as promising biocidal agents in clinical and sanitation contexts. However, they also signal concerns about TiO₂NP exposure influencing S. aureus virulence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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14 pages, 4924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Antibiotic-Loaded Silicone–Hydrogel Interpenetrating Polymer Network for the Prevention of Surgical Site Infections

by Rasmus Birkholm Grønnemose, Ditte Rask Tornby, Sara Schødt Riber, Janni Søvsø Hjelmager, Lars Peter Schødt Riber, Jes Sanddal Lindholt and Thomas Emil Andersen

Gels 2023, 9(10), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9100826 - 19 Oct 2023

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Abstract

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most frequent healthcare-associated infections, resulting in high morbidity, mortality, and cost. While correct hygiene measures and prophylactic antibiotics are effective in preventing SSIs, even in modern healthcare settings where recommended guidelines are strictly followed, SSIs persist [...] Read more.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most frequent healthcare-associated infections, resulting in high morbidity, mortality, and cost. While correct hygiene measures and prophylactic antibiotics are effective in preventing SSIs, even in modern healthcare settings where recommended guidelines are strictly followed, SSIs persist as a considerable problem that has proven hard to solve. Surgical procedures involving the implantation of foreign bodies are particularly problematic due to the ability of microorganisms to adhere to and colonize the implanted material and form resilient biofilms. In these cases, SSIs may develop even months after implantation and can be difficult to treat once established. Locally applied antibiotics or specifically engineered implant materials with built-in antibiotic-release properties may prevent these complications and, ultimately, require fewer antibiotics compared to those that are systemically administered. In this study, we demonstrated an antimicrobial material concept with intended use in artificial vascular grafts. The material is a silicone–hydrogel interpenetrating polymer network developed earlier for drug-release catheters. In this study, we designed the material for permanent implantation and tested the drug-loading and drug-release properties of the material to prevent the growth of a typical causative pathogen of SSIs, Staphylococcus aureus. The novelty of this study is demonstrated through the antimicrobial properties of the material in vitro after loading it with an advantageous combination, minocycline and rifampicin, which subsequently showed superiority over the state-of-the-art (Propaten) artificial graft material in a large-animal study, using a novel porcine tissue-implantation model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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21 pages, 4524 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Highly Adhesive Antimicrobial Coatings for External Fixation Devices

by Mikhail Bredikhin, Sushant Sawant, Christopher Gross, Erik L. S. Antonio, Nikolay Borodinov, Igor Luzinov and Alexey Vertegel

Gels 2023, 9(8), 639; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9080639 - 08 Aug 2023

Viewed by 978

Abstract

Pin site infections arise from the use of percutaneous pinning techniques (as seen in skeletal traction, percutaneous fracture pinning, and external fixation for fracture stabilization or complex deformity reconstruction). These sites are niduses for infection because the skin barrier is disrupted, allowing for [...] Read more.

Pin site infections arise from the use of percutaneous pinning techniques (as seen in skeletal traction, percutaneous fracture pinning, and external fixation for fracture stabilization or complex deformity reconstruction). These sites are niduses for infection because the skin barrier is disrupted, allowing for bacteria to enter a previously privileged area. After external fixation, the rate of pin site infections can reach up to 100%. Following pin site infection, the pin may loosen, causing increased pain (increasing narcotic usage) and decreasing the fixation of the fracture or deformity correction construct. More serious complications include osteomyelitis and deep tissue infections. Due to the morbidity and costs associated with its sequelae, strategies to reduce pin site infections are vital. Current strategies for preventing implant-associated infections include coatings with antibiotics, antimicrobial polymers and peptides, silver, and other antiseptics like chlorhexidine and silver-sulfadiazine. Problems facing the development of antimicrobial coatings on orthopedic implants and, specifically, on pins known as Kirschner wires (or K-wires) include poor adhesion of the drug-eluting layer, which is easily removed by shear forces during the implantation. Development of highly adhesive drug-eluting coatings could therefore lead to improved antimicrobial efficacy of these devices and ultimately reduce the burden of pin site infections. In response to this need, we developed two types of gel coatings: synthetic poly-glycidyl methacrylate-based and natural-chitosan-based. Upon drying, these gel coatings showed strong adhesion to pins and remained undamaged after the application of strong shear forces. We also demonstrated that antibiotics can be incorporated into these gels, and a K-wire with such a coating retained antimicrobial efficacy after drilling into and removal from a bone. Such a coating could be invaluable for K-wires and other orthopedic implants that experience strong shear forces during their implantation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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15 pages, 6272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anticorrosion and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Sol-Gel Hybrid Coatings Containing Clitoria ternatea Modified Clay

by Milad Sheydaei, Milad Edraki and Seyyed Mehdi Radeghi Mehrjou

Gels 2023, 9(6), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9060490 - 14 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1469

Abstract

In this study, Clitoria ternatea (CT) was incorporated into the structure of sodium montmorillonite (Na⁺-MMT), then these new nanoparticles (CT-MMT) were added to sol-gel-based hybrid silanol coatings (SGC). The results of the CT-MMT investigation using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray [...] Read more.

In this study, Clitoria ternatea (CT) was incorporated into the structure of sodium montmorillonite (Na⁺-MMT), then these new nanoparticles (CT-MMT) were added to sol-gel-based hybrid silanol coatings (SGC). The results of the CT-MMT investigation using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) confirmed the presence of CT in the structure. The results of polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests showed that the presence of CT-MMT in the matrix improves corrosion resistance. The EIS results showed that the coating resistance (R_f) of the sample containing 3 wt.% CT-MMT after immersion was 687 Ω·cm², while this value was 218 Ω·cm² for pure coating. CT and MMT compounds improve corrosion resistance by blocking anodic and cathodic regions, respectively. Additionally, the presence of CT in the structure created antimicrobial properties. CT contains phenolic compounds that have the ability to suppress by membrane perturbation, reduction of host ligands adhesion, and neutralizing bacterial toxins. Therefore, CT-MMT showed inhibitory effects and killing of Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive bacteria) and Salmonella paratyphi-A serotype (gram-negative bacteria), and also improved corrosion resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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18 pages, 4326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication and Evaluation of Water Hyacinth Cellulose-Composited Hydrogel Containing Quercetin for Topical Antibacterial Applications

by Tanpong Chaiwarit, Baramee Chanabodeechalermrung, Nutthapong Kantrong, Chuda Chittasupho and Pensak Jantrawut

Gels 2022, 8(12), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8120767 - 24 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2854

Abstract

Water hyacinth is an aquatic weed species that grows rapidly. In particular, it causes negative impacts on the aquatic environment and ecological system. However, water hyacinth is rich in cellulose, which is a biodegradable material. This study isolated cellulose from the water hyacinth [...] Read more.

Water hyacinth is an aquatic weed species that grows rapidly. In particular, it causes negative impacts on the aquatic environment and ecological system. However, water hyacinth is rich in cellulose, which is a biodegradable material. This study isolated cellulose from the water hyacinth petiole. It was then used to fabricate composite hydrogels made with water hyacinth cellulose (C), alginate (A), and pectin (P) at different mass ratios. The selected water hyacinth cellulose-based hydrogel was incorporated with quercetin, and its properties were evaluated. The FTIR and XRD of extracted water hyacinth cellulose indicated specific characteristics of cellulose. The hydrogel which consisted of the water hyacinth cellulose alginate characterized pectin: pectin had a mass ratio of 2.5:0.5:0.5 (C_2.5A_0.5P_0.5), showed good puncture strength (2.16 ± 0.14 N/mm²), the highest swelling index (173.28 ± 4.94%), and gel content (39.35 ± 0.53%). The FTIR showed an interaction between water hyacinth cellulose and quercetin with hydrogen bonding. The C_2.5A_0.5P_0.5 hydrogel containing quercetin possessed 92.07 ± 5.77% of quercetin-loaded efficiency. It also exhibited good antibacterial activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa due to hydrogel properties, and no toxicity to human cells. This study indicated that water hyacinth cellulose-composited hydrogel is suitable for topical antibacterial applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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Review

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20 pages, 1202 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Unraveling the New Perspectives on Antimicrobial Hydrogels: State-of-the-Art and Translational Applications

by Miguel A. Ortega, Diego De Leon-Oliva, Diego Liviu Boaru, Oscar Fraile-Martinez, Cielo García-Montero, Raul Diaz, Santiago Coca, Silvestra Barrena-Blázquez, Julia Bujan, Natalio García-Honduvilla, Miguel A. Saez, Melchor Álvarez-Mon and Jose V. Saz

Gels 2023, 9(8), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9080617 - 29 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1464

Abstract

The growing impact of infections and the rapid emergence of antibiotic resistance represent a public health concern worldwide. The exponential development in the field of biomaterials and its multiple applications can offer a solution to the problems that derive from these situations. In [...] Read more.

The growing impact of infections and the rapid emergence of antibiotic resistance represent a public health concern worldwide. The exponential development in the field of biomaterials and its multiple applications can offer a solution to the problems that derive from these situations. In this sense, antimicrobial hydrogels represent a promising opportunity with multiple translational expectations in the medical management of infectious diseases due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties as well as for drug delivery in specific areas. Hydrogels are three-dimensional cross-linked networks of hydrophilic polymers that can absorb and retain large amounts of water or biological fluids. Moreover, antimicrobial hydrogels (AMH) present good biocompatibility, low toxicity, availability, viscoelasticity, biodegradability, and antimicrobial properties. In the present review, we collect and discuss the most promising strategies in the development of AMH, which are divided into hydrogels with inherent antimicrobial activity and antimicrobial agent-loaded hydrogels based on their composition. Then, we present an overview of the main translational applications: wound healing, tissue engineering and regeneration, drug delivery systems, contact lenses, 3D printing, biosensing, and water purification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Gels)

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