Significance
Researchers have designed bioadhesives and coatings using the adhesive moiety catechol to mimic the strong adhesion capability of mussel adhesive proteins. During catechol autoxidation, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is generated as a byproduct. Here, catechol was incorporated into microgels, which can generate millimolar levels of H2O2 by simply hydrating the microgels in a solution with physiological pH. The sustained release of H2O2 was both antimicrobial and antiviral, inactivating even the more biocide resistant non-enveloped virus. These microgels can be repeatedly activated and deactivated for H2O2 generation by incubating them in solutions with different pH. This simplicity and recyclability will enable this biomaterial to function as a lightweight and portable source for the disinfectant for a wide range of applications.
Statement of significance
Researchers have designed bioadhesives and coatings using the adhesive moiety catechol to mimic the strong adhesion capability of mussel adhesive proteins. During catechol autoxidation, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is generated as a byproduct. Here, catechol was incorporated into microgels, which can generate millimolar levels of H2O2 by simply hydrating the microgels in a solution with physiological pH. The sustained release of H2O2 was both antimicrobial and antiviral, inactivating even the more biocide resistant non-enveloped virus. These microgels can be repeatedly activated and deactivated for H2O2 generation by incubating them in solutions with different pH. This simplicity and recyclability will enable this biomaterial to function as a lightweight and portable source for the disinfectant for a wide range of applications.