Antibacterial effects of octadecyl trimethylammonium micelle–clay complex against bacterial eye pathogens: potential as a contact lens disinfectant

Aim In this study, we utilized a micelle–clay complex composed of the surfactant octadecyltrimethylammonium bromide and montmorillonite clay and evaluated its antibacterial effects. Methods Using Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Staphylococcus epidermidis , and Micrococcus luteus , bactericidal assays were performed to determine the effects of ODTMA-clay complex on the viability of bacterial pathogen at various doses and different intervals of time. Cytotoxicity assays were performed to investigate ODTMA-clay complex effects on human cells, as determined by release of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase. Results The results revealed that ODTMA-clay complex abolished bacterial viability at 100 μg/mL within 45 min against P. aeruginosa , S. epidermidis , and M. luteus . Cytotoxicity assays revealed that ODTMA-clay complex exhibited minimal toxicity of the human cells. Conclusion Rapid and potent antibacterial effects of ODTMA micelle–clay complex were observed in vitro; however, research is needed to determine precise formulation of contact lens disinfectants comprising ODTMA micelle–clay complex. Additionally, studies should be conducted using in vivo models of keratitis, progressing to pre-clinical and clinical trials. ODTMA micelle–clay complex is an ideal candidate to be incorporated in a novel contact lens disinfectant given the cost-effectiveness and ease of application and can be incorporated as an effective preventative strategy.