Killing bacteria with electromagnetism

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have created a coating with magnetic-like features that attract bacteria and kill them, without antibiotics, but is harmless to human cells. The killer coating, which destroys 99 per cent of the bacteria and fungi that it comes in contact with, is now being used by two companies: a contact lens manufacturer and a company specialising in animal care products. The next step is to extend its use in a wide range of biomedical and consumer products, from implants and surgical instruments to kitchen utensils and cutler. This is an alternative solution that might replace antibiotics -- currently the main defence against bacteria. This sponge-like polymer holds a positive charge, which acts as a magnet-type of force to draw in bacteria which has a negative charge on their cell walls. When the bacterium comes in contact with the coating, the cell walls are “sucked” into the nanopores, causing the cell to rupture and killing the bacterium.