Open AccessNanomaterial-based therapeutics for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections
Author(s) -
Jessa Marie Makabenta,
Ahmed Nabawy,
Cheng Hsuan Li,
Suzannah M. Schmidt-Malan,
Robin Patel,
Vincent M. Rotello
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
nature reviews. microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 11.496
H-Index - 300
eISSN - 1740-1534
pISSN - 1740-1526
DOI - 10.1038/s41579-020-0420-1
Subject(s) - antibiotic resistance , antimicrobial , biofilm , antibiotics , biology , drug resistance , nanomaterials , microbiology and biotechnology , nanotechnology , computational biology , bacteria , materials science , genetics
Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections arising from acquired resistance and/or through biofilm formation necessitate the development of innovative 'outside of the box' therapeutics. Nanomaterial-based therapies are promising tools to combat bacterial infections that are difficult to treat, featuring the capacity to evade existing mechanisms associated with acquired drug resistance. In addition, the unique size and physical properties of nanomaterials give them the capability to target biofilms, overcoming recalcitrant infections. In this Review, we highlight the general mechanisms by which nanomaterials can be used to target bacterial infections associated with acquired antibiotic resistance and biofilms. We emphasize design elements and properties of nanomaterials that can be engineered to enhance potency. Lastly, we present recent progress and remaining challenges for widespread clinical implementation of nanomaterials as antimicrobial therapeutics.