Author(s): Zegre, Miguel ; Barros, J. ; Ribeiro, I. A. ; Santos, C ; Caetano, Liliana Aranha ; Gonçalves, L. ; Monteiro, F. J. ; Ferraz, M. P. ; Bettencourt, A.
Date: 2022
Persistent ID: http://hdl.handle.net/10400.21/14652
Origin: Repositório Científico do Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa
Subject(s): Bone infection; Polymicrobial biofilms; Minocycline; Voriconazole; Co-delivery; Localized antibiotic delivery; FCT_UIDB/05608/2020; FCT_UIDP/05608/2020
New strategies for the treatment of polymicrobial bone infections are required. In this study, the co-delivery of two antimicrobials by poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA) scaffolds was investigated in a polymicrobial biofilm model. PDLLA scaffolds were prepared by solvent casting/particulate leaching methodology, incorporating minocycline and voriconazole as clinically relevant antimicrobial agents. The scaffolds presented a sponge-like appearance, suitable to support cell proliferation and drug release. Single- and dual-species biofilm models of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans were developed and characterized. S. aureus presented a higher ability to form single-species biofilms, compared to C. Albicans. Minocycline and voriconazole-loaded PDLLA scaffolds showed activity against S. aureus and C. Albicans single- and dual-biofilms. Ultimately, the cytocompatibility/functional activity of PDLLA scaffolds observed in human MG-63 osteosarcoma cells unveil their potential as a next-generation co-delivery system for antimicrobial therapy in bone infections.
