Sol–Gel Nanocomposite Coatings for Preventing Biofilm Formation on Contact Lens Cases

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of a nanosilver-based sol–gel coating in preventing biofilm formation on contact lens cases. METHODS: An organic–inorganic hybrid silica–zirconia sol formulation with immobilized silver nanoparticles was deposited on contact lens case coupons. The coated and uncoated coupons were subjected to biofilm formation to Gram-negative and Gram-positive keratitis isolates and ATCC strains using a standard protocol. The biofilms were evaluated using crystal violet, MTT assay, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination. The duration of efficacy of the coating was evaluated by exposing the coated and uncoated coupons to a multipurpose lens cleaning solution for various durations up to 30 days and comparing their biofilm characteristics. The cytotoxicity of the coated surface was assessed using cell culture studies. RESULTS: Cross-hatch tests and SEM confirmed the presence of a uniform, well-adhered coating on the surface. The coating resulted in a nearly 95% reduction in biofilm formation of the tested bacteria and was effective despite exposures of up to 30 days to a multipurpose lens cleaning solution. The coating did not exhibit cytotoxicity to human corneal epithelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: The silver nanoparticle-based coating exhibits a good antibiofilm property for both Gram-negative bacilli and Gram-positive cocci and is promising for commercial use in preventing contact lens-related infections. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE: Biofilm formation on lens cases continues to be an important concern. The proposed coating will help reduce such formations, thus reducing the risk of lens-associated microbial keratitis.