Abstract
Microbial infections continue to endanger human health and present a great economic problem to society. To solve this predicament, great efforts to develop macromolecules that can inhibit pathogens without incurring pathogen resistance are needed. The development of antimicrobial polymeric hydrogels has grown considerably as an important alternative in the fight against pathogen drug resistance. This chapter summarizes significant and recent progress in the manufacture and application of antimicrobial hydrogels. Advances in macromolecular sciences have made it possible to modify molecular structure and functionality to generate broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. As a result, the range of biomedical applications has expanded significantly, from wound dressings, tissue engineering, medical device, and surface coatings; to creams for the treatment and deterrence of multi-drug resistant strains. Both natural and synthetic hydrogels possessing either inherent antimicrobial properties or loaded with antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides, or metal nanoparticles are discussed herein.