Two-photon polymerization 3D printing of biomimetic microstructures for functionalizing surfaces to inhibit bacterial growth

Mimicking natural bio-surfaces with specific microstructures that possess inherent antibacterial ability provides a promising bacteriostatic strategy. However, current methods for biomimetic surface antisepsis can only be implemented on planar substrates made of limited materials. Herein, we developed a 3D printing-based strategy to facilely customize biomimetic microstructures on specified surfaces to successfully enable bacteriostatic function. Two-photon polymerization was employed to fabricate elaborate bacteriostatic microstructures on either flat or curved surfaces regardless of their material (daily-used glass or plastics). Streptococcus mutans were cultured on microstructured surfaces as model bacteria to validate surface bacteriostatic performance. As an example, the strategy was adopted to endow clear aligner substrate surface with bacteriostatic ability, which would enhance the applicability and convenience of these orthodontic devices for maintaining personal oral hygiene. Our strategy will inspire daily or industrial applications aiming at surface sterilization in a customized, convenient, and safe manner.