Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed a novel antibacterial surface coating using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), the material that won the Nobel Prize this year. This coating can mechanically kill bacteria and prevent biofilm formation without relying on antibiotics.
The MOF technology creates a structured surface that physically disrupts bacterial cell membranes upon contact. Unlike conventional antibacterial methods, it does not use chemical agents or antibiotics, reducing the potential for bacteria to develop resistance.
This MOF-based coating offers a promising alternative to fight bacterial infections and biofilms, particularly in medical devices and hospital environments where antibiotic resistance is a major concern. It provides a durable and efficient bacterial control method without the side effects of drugs.
"By using this Nobel-winning material's unique structural properties, we can create surfaces that mechanically damage bacteria and inhibit their growth naturally," said a lead researcher at Chalmers.
The research team envisions this technology being applied across healthcare settings and beyond, improving hygiene and reducing infection risks worldwide. The MOF coating is expected to advance antibacterial strategies with lower environmental impact and longer-lasting effectiveness.
This novel MOF-based antibacterial coating offers a mechanical, antibiotic-free solution to prevent infections and biofilms, combining Nobel-winning science with practical healthcare benefits.