Bacterial cellulose and its nanocomposites for biomedical applications

Bacterial cellulose is a natural nanomaterial produced by strains of the bacterium Acetobacter xylinum in static, shaken and agitated cultures. With fiber dimension of -30 nm and being very hydrophilic, it is ideally suited for a broad range of biomedical applications. The bacterial cellulose fiber has a high degree of crystallinity. Using atomic force microscopy for direct nanomechanical measurement, we have determined that these fibers are very strong and when used in combination with other biocompatible materials, produce nanocomposites suitable for use in medical device applications. In particular, nanocomposites consisting of bacterial cellulose and poly(vinyl alcohol) have been investigated. A broad range of mechanical properties control was demonstrated. Materials with properties closely mimic that of cardiovascular tissues were prepared. These materials are potential candidates as synthetic replacements of natural cardiovascular tissues. (c) 2006 American Chemical Society.