Reference #: 01016
The
Invention Description:
The subject invention demonstrates the utilization of cationic metallocene moeities that exhibit antimicrobial properties when paired with a variety of different anions. These organometallic molecules and their charged metallopolymers inhibit a broad spectrum of pathogens, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and many kinds of multi-drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSRA) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA).
Potential Applications:
Advantages and Benefits:
Testing and Development:
The field emission scanning electron microscopy images below illustrate the lytic breakdown of healthcare-acquired MRSA, a potentially deadly superbug, before (left) and after (right) incubation with antimicrobial agents.
Background:
Because of their metal centers and specially-designed organic frames, organometallic compounds and polymers have unique properties that allow them to be used in medicinal chemistry such as drugs, drug delivery substrates, and enzyme inhibitors. One example of organometallic molecules are cationic metallocene moieties, which have become promising candidates for new biomaterials because of their high stability, unique redox property and potential bioactivity.
Similarly, cationic polymers have also attracted much attention because of their low drug resistance and ability to disrupt the cytoplasmic membranes of bacteria. Furthermore, cationic metallopolymers combine the processing advantages of polymers with the functionality provided by the presence of metal centers. Cationic polymers are continually being used in antimicrobial materials, antifouling coatings, packaging, and drug delivery.
The combination of cationic metallocene moieties and cationic polymers create the potential for novel drugs and antimicrobial materials.