Immobilization of poly-L-lysine brush via surface initiated polymerization for the development of long-term antibacterial coating for silicone catheter

Bacterial colonization of indwelling catheter remains a major threat in healthcare units worldwide. Developing approaches to prevent catheter-associated infections (CAIs) is, therefore, in great demand. Herein, to endow silicone catheter with long-term antibacterial properties, antimicrobial poly-L-lysine (PLL) brush was developed on the surface of catheter via surface initiated ring open polymerization. Surface characterizations confirmed the successful immobilization of PLL. The PLL-tethered catheter showed potent antibacterial activities against catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) related pathogens. Moreover, after immersing in simulated body fluid for 28 days or incubating at 60 °C for 65 days, the bactericidal properties of PLL-tethered catheter were still retained. Furthermore, the PLL-tethered catheter exhibited good anti-infection activity and biocompatibility in vivo. The PLL-tethered surfaces hold great potential in the development of antibacterial silicone catheter to combat CAIs in clinical applications.