Coatings Based on Two-Dimensionally Ordered Linear Chain Carbon for Protection of Titanium Implants from Microbial Colonization

Purpose of the study – to evaluate the antibacterial activity and biological compatibility of alloy coatings based on two-dimensionally ordered linear chain carbon (TDOLCC). Materials and Methods. Coatings based on TDOLCC were synthesized using alloying additions like nitrogen (TDOLCC+N) and silver (TDOLCC+Ag) on the surfaces of titanium plates and polystyrene plates by the ion-stimulated carbon condensation in a vacuum. The authors examined the superficial bactericidal activity of the coatings and its resistance to mechanical effects. Coated plates were evaluated in respect of rate of microbial biofilms formation by clinical isolates with multiple and extreme antibiotic resistance. Specimens were colored with crystal violet solution to visualize the biofilms. Cytotoxic effect of coatings was evaluated in respect of primary culture of fibroblasts and keratinocyte cell line HaCaT. Results. The authors observed pronounced superficial bactericidal effect of TDOLCC+Ag coating in respect of microorganisms of several taxonomic groups independently of their resistance to antibacterial drugs. TDOLCC+Ag coating proved capable to completely prevent microbial biofilm formation by antibiotic resistant clinical isolates of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa . Silvercontaining coating demonstrated mechanical resistance and preservation of close to baseline level of superficial bactericidal activity even after lengthy abrasion treatment. TDOLCC based coatings did not cause any cytotoxic effects. Structure of monolayers formed in cavities coated by TDOLCC+N and TDOLCC+Ag was indistinguishable from the monolayers in cavities of control plates.