Description:
Summary
Oregon Health & Science University researchers have developed a novel monomer adhesive with increased antibacterial properties compared to existing adhesives, which may reduce infection and increase the longevity of dental restorations.
Technology Overview
Biofilm colonization of restorative surfaces is one of the main issues leading to secondary caries, which in turn is one of the leading causes for replacement. The laboratory of Dr. Carmem Pfeifer has developed a novel class of monomers with antibacterial properties. These compounds demonstrate similar structural and mechanical properties as existing dental adhesives, including flexural strength, elastic modulus, and bond strength. However, antibacterial properties were greatly increased compared to existing adhesives. In vitro testing found these monomers decreased the titer counts of biofilm by more than two orders of magnitude in comparison to standard dental adhesives. These monomers also demonstrated high stability, with virtually no degradation after 30 days in extreme acidic conditions. This technology was developed for dental applications, but these antibacterial monomers could have expanded utility in catheters and other implantable polymeric materials to reduce bacterial colonization of breakdown of these substances.
Publication
Fugolin et al., “Antibacterial, ester-free monomers: Polymerization kinetics, mechanical properties, biocompatibility and anti-biofilm activity.” Acta Biomaterialia 100(2019): 132-141. Link
Licensing Opportunity
Available for licensing and collaborative co-development.