Biomaterial-Bacteria Interfaces: From Surface Chemistry to Infection Outcomes

The interface between biomaterials and bacteria is a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of microbiology, immunology, and materials science. As the use of medical implants rises globally, understanding the complex interactions at tissue-implant interfaces has become crucial for addressing implant-associated bacterial infections, which represent a leading cause of device failure and patient morbidity. Despite major advances, the mechanisms by which surface chemistry of biomaterials dictates microbial adhesion, colonization, and subsequent infection outcomes remain incompletely understood. Among the current challenges are persistent device-related infections, biofilm formation, and the ability of bacteria to evade host immune responses. Recent evidence underscores how subtle differences in biomaterial surfaces - ranging from physicochemical properties to nanoscale topographies - can profoundly alter host-pathogen dynamics at the interface.Major studies have highlighted that modifications in surface chemistry and topography significantly impact not just the initial bacterial attachment but also the progression to chronic infection and host immune modulation. Innovative materials, anti-fouling coatings, surface treatments, nano-engineered surface modifications, and nanomaterial-based anti-biofilm strategies are being investigated with the goal to prevent infection without compromising tissue integration. Nevertheless, key gaps persist in translating in vitro findings to clinically relevant settings, clarifying how innate and adaptive immune responses are orchestrated by surface-bacteria interplay, and in the development of effective immune or vaccine-based interventions specifically targeting these interfaces. The field is actively debating optimal strategies to both prevent and treat infections, including whether universal or highly tailored approaches are needed depending on the biomaterial type and bacterial species.This Research Topic aims to consolidate cutting-edge findings and foster interdisciplinary dialogue on how surface properties of biomaterials shape bacterial pathogenesis, immune response, and infection outcomes at the tissue-implant interface. By inviting contributions that bridge materials science, bacterial pathogenesis, immunology, nanotechnology, and clinical research, the collection seeks to illuminate the most pressing mechanistic questions, potential intervention points, and novel preventative or therapeutic strategies in this critical arena. Key objectives include clarifying the molecular and cellular interactions at play, identifying high-risk scenarios for infection, and exploring the potential of immune-based interventions, vaccine development, and nano-enabled approaches to prevent biofilm formation and device-associated infection.To gather further insights into the complex and dynamic landscape of biomaterial-bacteria interfaces, we welcome articles that investigate the interplay between material surface properties and infection, particularly at the tissue-implant interface, as well as broader aspects relevant to bacterial pathogenesis and host immune response. Submissions may address, but are not limited to, the following themes:- Surface chemistry and biophysical properties of biomaterials influencing bacterial adhesion and colonization- Mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis and immune evasion at implant interfaces- Biofilm formation and its role in chronic infection and resistance- Host-pathogen interactions and immune signaling at biomaterial surfaces- Strategies for infection prevention, including anti-microbial coatings, immunomodulation, vaccine development, and nanomaterial-based anti-biofilm approaches- Nano-engineered surface modifications for reducing bacterial adhesion and improving infection resistance- Challenges in translating laboratory findings into clinical solutions- Comparative studies of different biomaterials or bacterial species relevant to device-related infectionsIf you are interested in submitting or have any questions, please contact the journal email: bacteriology@frontiersin.org. Topic editors: Richard Bright, Eepsita Priyadarshini Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80230/biomaterial-bacteria-interfaces-from-surface-chemistry-to-infection-outcomes