Effect of Stiffness and Texturing on Staphylococcus epidermidis Adhesion to Surfaces

Cromwick, Mary Elizabeth; Petroff, Helena Ann

Student Work

Effect of Stiffness and Texturing on Staphylococcus epidermidis Adhesion to Surfaces Public

The goal of this project was to develop a surface that can resist bacteria biofilm growth using only physical surface properties. Previous research has shown that Staphylococcus aureus adhesion decreases as the stiffness of hydrophobic surfaces increases. Other research regarding surface texture showed that micropillars of approximately the same size as Staphylococcus epidermidis reduced bacterial adhesion. The team hypothesizes that by combining material properties of high stiffness and surface texture, the surface will reduce bacterial adhesion better than either property by itself. The team reports preliminary data characterizing the antimicrobial and stiffness properties of surfaces. Additionally, the team describes the experiments planned for D term 2020 and the anticipated results.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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