Engineering Biomaterials with Antimicrobial Properties

Dear Colleagues,

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a serious concern at a global scale that has dramatically increased over the past century partially due to the misuse of antibiotics. This is leading to a frightening scenario where, in the near future, the effectiveness of classical infection treatment approaches may be compromised, which poses a serious risk for human health. Antibiotic efficacy can be highly compromised by several resistance/adaptation mechanisms adopted by microorganisms, such as the formation of a biofilm layer. The root cause of a vast number of complicated healthcare-associated infections arises from the microbial colonization of biomedical devices. Hence, game-changing strategies and more in-depth research in engineering biomaterials with antimicrobials properties are required to tackle the rising occurrence of AMR. This issue focuses on biomaterials strategies struggling to limit AMR emergence by outlining promising strategies showcasing an increase in the infection-resistance of biomaterials. The main aim of this Special Issue is to publish original research articles that mitigate the occurrence and/or impact of implant-associated infections through different approaches, including the engineering of an interface between the implant and tissue that discourage the adhesion of microorganisms, the development of alternative antimicrobial agents and also the improvement of drug delivery systems. Review articles discussing state-of-the-art strategies employed in the fabrication of antimicrobial biomaterials and anticipating new avenues to minimize microbial infections on biomaterials will also be considered for inclusion in this Special Issue.

Dr. Joana M. Silva
Prof. Dr. Rui L. Reis
Guest Editors

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• anti-infective biomaterials
• implant-associated infections
• biomedical devices
• microbial biofilms
• surface functionalization
• antimicrobial coatings
• antifouling coatings
• antimicrobial agents
• surface topography
• bioinspired strategies
• natural compounds
• antimicrobial resistance