Hygiene management is important for everyday items that come into direct contact with the body, such as clothes, masks, and toothbrushes. Scientists have discovered how graphene can selectively eliminate bacteria without harming human cells. This discovery points to a new class of antimicrobial materials that are safe for humans and can reduce reliance on traditional antibiotics.
KAIST recently announced that a joint research team led by Professor Sang Ouk Kim from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Professor Hyun Jung Chung from the Department of Biological Sciences has identified the mechanism behind the antibacterial properties of graphene oxide (GO). This material consists of a single atomic layer of carbon with oxygen groups attached to it, which disperses well in water and has the ability to perform a variety of functions.
Until now, scientists did not fully understand how graphene achieved its antibacterial effects. This study provides clear molecular-level evidence explaining how the material works.
Explanation of selective antibacterial action
Researchers have discovered that graphene oxide performs what is called “selective antimicrobial action.” It attaches to bacteria and destroys cell membranes, but has no effect on human cells. This process is similar to how magnets only stick to certain metals.
This selectivity comes from the oxygen-containing groups on the surface of graphene oxide. These groups specifically bind to a molecule called POPG. POPG is present in bacterial cell membranes, but not in human cells. Simply put, graphene oxide identifies unique features of bacteria and attaches to them, disrupting the cell structure. Phospholipids make up the membranes around cells, and POPG is the type found primarily in bacteria.
Effective against superbugs and promotes healing
When applied in the form of nanofibers, this material was able to stop the growth of a wide range of harmful bacteria, including super-virulent bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. Tests on animals have also shown that it speeds up wound healing without causing inflammation.
Another advantage is durability. Fibers made with graphene oxide retain their antibacterial properties even after repeated washing, suggesting great potential for use in clothing, medical textiles, and other practical applications.
From laboratory discoveries to real-world products
This technology is already being used in consumer products. The graphene antibacterial toothbrush, developed with a patent by the faculty-led startup Materials Creation Co., Ltd., has been a huge commercial success, selling more than 10 million units. In addition, GrapheneTex, a fiber material incorporating this technology, will be used in the uniforms of the taekwondo demonstration team at the 2024 Paris Olympics. It is also expected to appear as functional sportswear at upcoming major events such as the 2026 Asian Games.
Expanding applications beyond clothing
Professor Sang Ouk Kim explained, “This study is a scientific example of why graphene can selectively kill bacteria while remaining safe for humans.” He added: “This principle can be extended beyond safe clothing without harsh chemicals to a limitless range of applications, including wearable devices and medical textile systems.”
Sujin Cha (Doctoral student, Department of Materials Science and Engineering) and Ju Yeon Chung (Integrated Master’s/Doctoral student, Department of Biological Sciences) contributed as first authors. Professor Chung Hyun Jeong served as co-special author. The findings were published March 2 in the journal Advanced Functional Materials.
The research also attracted attention from Nanowerk, a global nanotechnology platform, which featured it in a “spotlight” with the title “Graphene oxide destroys bacteria without harming human tissue.”
Research support and funding
This research was supported by the Nano and Materials Technology Development (R&D) Program, the Individual Basic Research Program, and the Mid-Career Researcher Support Program, all funded by the Ministry of Science, Information and Communications.
