DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121698
A game-changing antiseptic compound has emerged from the labs of Italy’s esteemed Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, promising more effective and safer use of iodine in disinfecting applications. The groundbreaking research, led by Sonia Pedotti and her team, has been published in the journal “Carbohydrate Polymers” under the title “A novel cationic β-cyclodextrin decorated with a choline-like pendant exhibits Iodophor, Mucoadhesive and bactericidal properties.”
The Innovation
In their recent study, the research team presents the synthesis of a novel cationic β-cyclodextrin bearing a choline-like pendant (β-CD-Chol). This carefully crafted molecule is designed to enhance the capabilities of iodine, a well-known antiseptic agent, by improving its solubility, stability, and delivery to bacterial cells.
With a quest for optimizing iodophor compounds, the team focused on a functional approach to address the inherent limitations of iodine. The results are promising, as they offer a glimpse into the future of antiseptics — one that could see broad application, particularly in mucosal disinfection.
The Research Path to Discovery
The team conducted comprehensive analyses using a variety of sophisticated techniques such as NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, UV-vis spectrophotometry, isothermal titration calorimetry, and dynamic light scattering. These studies confirmed that the cationic β-CD-Chol effectively complexes with iodine, capturing its antiseptic properties within a stable and water-soluble form.
Efficient formation of the β-CD-Chol/iodine complex both in solution and via solid-vapor reaction yielded a robust compound, stable over several months. Crucially, this complex demonstrates satisfying iodine release rates, indicating its potential for use in prolonged antiseptic applications.
Clinical Implications
The bactericidal activity of the complex was validated against a Staphylococcus epidermidis strain, a common pathogenic bacterium. Additionally, human keratinocyte tests reported no significant cytotoxic effects, a vital finding that underscores the safe use of this compound on human tissue.
One of the standout properties of β-CD-Chol is its improved mucoadhesivity — the ability to adhere to mucosal surfaces. This characteristic is especially important for treatments targeting mucosal membranes, providing enhanced contact time and localized antiseptic action.
The Impact on Health Safety
Infections, particularly those contracted in clinical settings, pose a risk to patient safety. Effective antiseptic agents play a crucial role in infection control by eliminating pathogenic microorganisms from surfaces, including human skin and mucosa. The innovation of β-CD-Chol represents a significant advancement in the development of new iodophor candidates, which can be used for a wide range of antisepsis applications. It aims to offer health practitioners a potent tool in the fight against infections, particularly in a time where antibiotic resistance is on the rise.
The Team Behind the Research
The multidisciplinary research team comprises experts from various institutes across Italy:
Sonia S. Pedotti, Loredana L. Ferreri, Rossella R. Migliore, Nicola N. D’Antona, and Grazia Maria Letizia GML Consoli from the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Catania, Italy.
Claudia Giovanna CG Leotta and Giovanni Mario GM Pitari from Vera Salus Ricerca S.r.l., Siracusa, Italy.
Salvatore S. Petralia from the Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Italy.
Danilo D. Aleo from MEDIVIS S.r.l., Catania, Italy.
Carmelo C. Sgarlata from the Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, Italy.
This collaborative effort brought together the necessary expertise to not only create the compound but also to thoroughly assess its properties and potential for practical use.
The Future Outlook
This innovation opens new doors in the field of antiseptics and may pave the way for the development of derivatives and related compounds that may serve as potent agents against a wider array of bacterial strains. The mucoadhesive property of β-CD-Chol, in particular, contains vast potential for targeted treatments.
Ethical and Competing Interests Statement
It is crucial to state the integrity of the research, with the authors declaring that there are no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have influenced their work. This transparency is vital in ensuring the credibility and objectivity of the study and its findings.
References
1. Pedotti, Sonia S., et al. “A novel cationic β-cyclodextrin decorated with a choline-like pendant exhibits Iodophor, Mucoadhesive and bactericidal properties.” Carbohydrate Polymers 328 (2024): 121698.
2. Chatterjee, A., et al. (2020). “Beta-Cyclodextrins: The Molecular Basket in Therapeutic Applications.” International Journal of Pharmaceutics 582: 119314.
3. Loftsson, T., et al. (1996). “Effects of cyclodextrins on drug delivery through biological membranes.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 85(10): 1017-1025.
4. Uekama, K., et al. (1998). “Design of cyclodextrin-based new drug formulation.” Drug Design and Discovery 15(1): 39-58.
5. Davis, M. E., & Brewster, M. E. (2004). “Cyclodextrin-based pharmaceutics: past, present, and future.” Nature Reviews Drug Discovery 3(12): 1023-1035.
Keywords
1. Antiseptic Technology
2. Cyclodextrin Complex
3. Mucoadhesive Drug Delivery
4. Iodine Disinfectants
5. Bactericidal Compounds
This innovative development in the field of antiseptics has the potential to improve the efficacy and safety of infection control measures significantly. The detailed characterization, clinical implications, and promising future outlook presented by the research team exemplify a commitment to advancing healthcare and patient safety through scientific discovery.