Antimicrobial Activity of Berberine–Chitosan Nanoparticle–Coated Sutures: An In-Vitro Evaluation

Abstract

Background: Surgical sutures can act as substrates for bacterial colonization, leading to surgical site infections. Incorporating antimicrobial agents into sutures offers localized infection control. Berberine possesses broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, while chitosan nanoparticles enable sustained drug delivery.

Objective: To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of berberine–chitosan nanoparticle (BCNP)–coated sutures against common pathogenic microorganisms.

Materials and Methods: Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar diffusion method against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Zones of inhibition produced by BCNP nanoparticles and BCNP-coated sutures were measured after 24 h incubation at 37 °C.

Results: BCNP nanoparticles demonstrated greater antimicrobial activity compared to coated sutures across all organisms. The highest zone of inhibition was observed against Staphylococcus aureus (38 mm for nanoparticles, 24 mm for coated sutures). Coated sutures exhibited significant antibacterial activity, confirming successful drug incorporation and release.

Conclusion: Berberine–chitosan nanoparticle-coated sutures exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and may serve as promising bioactive surgical materials.