Investigating Polypyrrole/Silver-Based Composite for Biofilm Prevention on Silicone Surfaces for Urinary Catheter Applications

Overview

Journal ACS Omega

Publisher American Chemical Society

Specialty Chemistry

Date 2025 Mar 3

PMID 40028113

Authors

Maira C Marcolino

Milena L Guimaraes

Marina de L Fontes

Flavia A Resende

Hernane da S Barud

Andreia S Azevedo

Nuno F Azevedo

Helinando P de Oliveira

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are among the most common healthcare-related infections caused by biofilm formation. This research investigated the efficacy of polypyrrole (PPy), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and their combination (PPy/AgNPs) as water-soluble additives applied in cleaning procedures for preventing the formation of and (single and dual-species biofilms) on silicone. Ultraviolet-visible absorption assays, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, FTIR analysis, and dynamic light scattering experiments were conducted to evaluate the structure and physicochemical response of the antibiofilm compounds, with the biofilm prevention concentrations assessed by plate counting, flow cytometry, and SEM images. The composites proved to be dose-dependent agents preventing single- and dual-species biofilms from forming under simulated CAUTI conditions. Furthermore, cytotoxicity assays indicated that the materials are non-cytotoxic, supporting their suitability for biomedical applications. These findings pave the way for developing more effective, biocompatible catheter cleaning procedures, ultimately improving patient outcomes and addressing biofilms-related infections in clinical settings.

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