Antimicrobial surface for devices used in stem culture manipulation and in vitro biofabrication of tissues

Cell therapy and engineered tissue creation based on the use of human stem cells involves cell isolation, expansion, and cell growth and differentiation on the scaffolds. Microbial infections dramatically can affect stem cell survival and increase the risk of implant failure. To prevent these events, it is necessary to develop new materials with antibacterial properties for coating scaffold surfaces as well as medical devices, and all other surfaces at high risk of contamination. This chapter describes strategies for obtaining antibacterial blends for coating inert surfaces (polymethylmethacrylate, polycarbonate, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)). In particular, the procedures for preparing antibacterial blends by mixing polymer resins with two types of antibacterial additives and depositing these blends on inert surfaces are described.