Here we describe the development, characterization and biological testing of a new type of linear molecularly imprinted polymer (LMIP) designed to act as anti-infective by blocking the quorum sensing (QS) mechanism and so preventing virulence of the pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae. The LMIP is prepared (polymerized) in presence of a template molecule, but unlike in traditional molecular imprinting approaches no cross-linker is used. This results in soluble low molecular weight polymer that can act as drug agent in vitro and in vivo. The LMIP was characterized by mass spectrometry to determine its monomer composition. Fragments identified were then aligned along the peptide template by computer modeling, predicting the possible monomer sequence of the LMIP. These findings provide proof of principle that LMIP can be used to block QS, setting the stage for studies on a novel drug-discovery platform and class of materials to target Gram positive pathogens.
