Cross-linked natural IntegroPectin films from Citrus biowaste with intrinsic antimicrobial activity

Piacenza, E.; Presentato, A.; Alduina, R. V.; Scurria, A.; Pagliaro, M.; Albanese, L.; Meneguzzo, F.; Ciriminna, R.; Chillura Martino, D. F.

doi:10.1101/2022.01.28.478153

bioRxiv · 10.1101/2022.01.28.478153

Cross-linked natural IntegroPectin films from Citrus biowaste with intrinsic antimicrobial activity

Piacenza, E.·Presentato, A.·Alduina, R. V.·Scurria, A.·Pagliaro, M.·Albanese, L.·Meneguzzo, F.·Ciriminna, R.·Chillura Martino, D. F.

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Abstract

Pectin recovered via hydrodynamic cavitation (IntegroPectin) from lemon and grapefruit agri-food waste intrinsically containing antimicrobial bioactive substances (flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenes, and terpenoids) was used to generate innovative and eco-compatible films that efficiently inhibit the growth of Gram-negative pathogens. Extensive characterization of films confirmed the presence of these substances, which differently interact with the polysaccharide polymer (pectin), plasticizer (glycerol), surfactant (Tween 60), and cross-linker (Ca2+), conferring to these films a unique structure. Besides, IntegroPectin-based films constitute sustained, controlled, and slow-release (up to 72h) systems for bioactive substances in an aqueous environment. This feature is crucial for the good in vitro antimicrobial activity exerted by IntegroPectin films against three Gram-negative bacteria (two indicator pathogen strains Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145, P. aeruginosa PAO1, and the clinical isolate Klebsiella pneumoniae) that are involved in the global emergence of the antimicrobial resistance.

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Piacenza, E., Presentato, A., Alduina, R. V., Scurria, A., Pagliaro, M., Albanese, L., Meneguzzo, F., Ciriminna, R., Chillura Martino, D. F.. 2022-01-28. Cross-linked natural IntegroPectin films from Citrus biowaste with intrinsic antimicrobial activity. https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.01.28.478153

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