In this study, a systematic evaluation was performed where nanostructured pillars with controlled interspatial distances were used to examine their role on the quantity and type of protein being adsorbed from four different protein solutions. In addition, we successfully visualised a 3D chemical mapping with nano-IR Photo-induced Force Microscopy that detected the presence of fibrinogen, collagen, and proteins in human saliva on and between nanopillars. Finally, the technique showed that the proteins adsorption was higher between the nanopillars than on top. The protein-coated nanostructured surfaces were subjected to E. coli-WT to examine the relationship between nanotopography, protein adsorption and bacterial adhesion. In general, the presence of proteins decreased the adhesion of E. coli-WT to the nanopatterned surfaces, and increase in interpillar distance was associated with reduced bacterial adhesion. Hence, we found a correlation between nanostructures and bacterial adhesion. The results from the study provide insight into the development of new implant surfaces with anti-adhesion bacterial properties used for medical devices.

Reference
Protein-coated nanostructured surfaces affect the adhesion of Escherichia coli
Kallas P, Valen H, Hulander M, Gadegaard N, Stormonth-Darling J, Thiede B, O’Reilly P, Andersson M, Haugen HJ
Nanoscale, 2022, Accepted Manuscript DOI: 10.1039/D2NR00976E