Titanium Micro-Spikes: A Drug-Free Solution to Skewer and Kill Resistant Superbugs

Scientists at RMIT University have developed a pattern of microscale spikes that can be etched onto titanium implants or other surfaces to provide effective, drug-free protection against drug-resistant superbugs, including fungus. The spikes, similar in height to bacteria cells, destroy about half of the cells upon contact and render the remaining cells unviable. The surface's effectiveness against common pathogenic bacteria has also been demonstrated. The study suggests that surfaces causing programmed cell death in surviving cells may be effective in preventing resistance. The technique could have potential applications in medical devices, dental applications, and other materials.