Researchers at MIT and in Germany have developed a new glue that adhesively bonds surfaces in a similar way to how mussels stick to surfaces such as rocks, with the added benefit of antibacterial properties.
The glue combines sticky polymers inspired by mussels’ adhesive proteins, known as Mousteria Kabataica, and the germ-fighting properties of mucus, which is primarily made up of a protein called mucin.
Testing of the new glue showed that it could adhere to surfaces even in wet conditions, and could be used in a spray or injection form.
Potential applications for the new adhesive include surgical glues that reduce infection and coatings for medical implants, as well as for use in packaging and other applications.