Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Properties and Biocompatibility of Polypropylene Mesh Conjugated with Gold Nanoparticles

Polypropylene (PP) mesh is commonly utilized as a patch for hernia repairs and for pelvic slings. However, biocompatibility and infection rates are a concern. Conjugating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to PP mesh may enhance biocompatibility while reducing infection rates. In this study we investigated the size and concentration of gold nanoparticles attached to polypropylene hernia mesh to determine the effects on biocompatibility. The mesh was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to determine if functional groups and AuNPs had been successfully attached. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was utilized to analyze the heat of fusion and denaturation temperature of the modified PP to determine thermal stability. The antimicrobial properties were assessed using Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Biocompatibility was evaluated via in vitro cell culture assays using L929 murine fibroblast cells.