The development of alternative antibacterial therapeutics is becoming urgent due to antibiotic resistance to pathogen bacteria. We have shown that an anionic water-soluble polythiophene (PTP) and a cationic porphyrin (TPPN) can form complex through electrostatic interactions, and efficient energy transfer from PTP to TPPN occurs upon the irradiation under white light (400-800 nm). The produced singlet oxygen by sensitizing oxygen molecule effectively kills the bacteria. Very recently, we have also shown that a multifunctional cationic poly(p-phenylene vinylene) derivative bearing polyethylene glycol (PEG) side chains  can be used for selective recognition, imaging and killing of bacteria over mammalian cells. These multifunctional conjugated polymers combine recognition, imaging and killing functions into a single system to achieve the collaborative and selective antimicrobial effect. Our new strategy will exert a far-reaching impact on the future development of antimicrobial materials, exhibiting its potential applications in pathogen infections and medical implants.

Multifunctional conjugated polymers for light-activated antibacterial activity with imaging capability

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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