New trends in research on poly(2-oxazoline)s with antimicrobial activity

Abstract

Recently, the design and preparation of antimicrobial materials have received considerable interest. Over the past few years, poly(2-oxazoline)s (POx)-based systems have been intensively studied for their antibacterial, antifouling, and antifungal activity. This article highlights recent and significant developments in the field of POx with antimicrobial activity. Special attention is given to the synthesis of 2-oxazoline (co)polymers containing active compounds or specific functional groups that, in addition to enhancing or introducing antimicrobial properties, maintain high levels of biocompatibility. Interest has also been focused on the preparation of POx-based materials, such as layers on substrates, nanoparticles or hydrogels to combat microorganisms. The challenges and opportunities associated with antimicrobial POx systems are also discussed to further emphasize the potential of these materials in biomedical applications.