Construction of Degradable Multilayer Films for Enhanced Antibacterial Properties

Infections associated with medical devices have become a major concern. The adhesion of bacteria to the devices’ surfaces during the initial 24 h is believed to be a “decisive period” for implant-associated infections, which pose key challenges to optimal antiadhesion of microbes in this period. Herein, we have designed and constructed a (heparin/chitosan)10–(polyvinylpyrrolidone/poly(acrylic acid))10 [(HEP/CHI)10–(PVP/PAA)10] multilayer film by layer-by-layer self-assembly. Assembly of the underlying (HEP/CHI)10 multilayer film is based on electrostatic interactions, showing the properties of contact killing of bacteria. Deposition of the top (PVP/PAA)10 multilayer film is based on hydrogen bond interactions. The PAA molecules are then cross-linked to form anhydride groups by thermal treatment at 110 °C for 16 h. Therefore, it shows a top-down degradable capability in the determined period, leading to almost no adhesion of bacteria in 24 h. Our system combining the adhesion resistance and the contact kil...