Devatha Nair, Ph.D.
Abstract
This work presents a novel azobenzene-based polymer coating that leverages visiblelight-responsive molecular transitions to effectively disrupt and remove mature Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms from substrate surfaces. The coating achieves complete biofilm removal, and the dispersed bacteria exhibit heightened susceptibility to low-dose antibiotics. Covalently tethered to various surfaces, this smart material introduces a transformative approach to biofilm management. The potential for advancing this technology for medical devices—including implants, prostheses, catheters, and endoscopes—and industrial coatings is explored. Additionally, this study investigates stimuli-responsive polymer coatings designed to both disperse established oral biofilms and selectively target caries-associated bacteria. Efficacy was evaluated through comprehensive in vitro and in vivo models, demonstrating the potential of these smart materials to enhance oral health by disrupting pathogenic biofilms and reducing cariogenic bacterial load. The ability to target specific biofilms along with the lightinduced mechanical motion of azobenzene polymers offers broad potential for removing unwanted surface contaminants, positioning this innovation as a game-changer in smart coating design.
When: November 14, 2025
Where: North Classroom
Time: 11:00 am - 12:00pm