Open AccessNanotargeting of Resistant Infections with a Special Emphasis on the Biofilm Landscape
Author(s) -
Amjed Alabresm,
Savannah L. Chandler,
Brian C. Benicewicz,
Alan W. Decho
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
bioconjugate chemistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.279
H-Index - 172
eISSN - 1520-4812
pISSN - 1043-1802
DOI - 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00116
Subject(s) - biofilm , antimicrobial , chemistry , antibiotic resistance , nanotechnology , antibiotics , microbiology and biotechnology , bacteria , biochemical engineering , biology , engineering , biochemistry , genetics , materials science , organic chemistry
Bacterial resistance to antimicrobial compounds is a growing concern in medical and public health circles. Overcoming the adaptable and duplicative resistance mechanisms of bacteria requires chemistry-based approaches. Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) now offer unique advantages toward this effort. However, most in situ infections (in humans) occur as attached biofilms enveloped in a protective surrounding matrix of extracellular polymers, where survival of microbial cells is enhanced. This presents special considerations in the design and deployment of antimicrobials. Here, we review recent efforts to combat resistant bacterial strains using NPs and, then, explore how NP surfaces may be specifically engineered to enhance the potency and delivery of antimicrobial compounds. Special NP-engineering challenges in the design of NPs must be overcome to penetrate the inherent protective barriers of the biofilm and to successfully deliver antimicrobials to bacterial cells. Future challenges are discussed in the development of new antibiotics and their mechanisms of action and targeted delivery via NPs.