Combating Drug-Resistant Bacteria Using Photothermally Active Nanomaterials: A Perspective Review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis driven by antibiotic overuse, leading to a dwindling pipeline of effective treatments.
• Drug-resistant infections are increasing in both hospital and community settings, threatening a potential "post-antibiotic era."
• Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to combat pathogenic microbes resistant to existing drugs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of photothermally active nanomaterials (PANs) as an effective strategy against drug-resistant bacteria.
• To explore the mechanisms of action of PANs, including their bactericidal and potentiating effects.
• To discuss the application of PANs as drug carriers and address potential toxicities.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on photothermally active nanomaterials (PANs) and their antimicrobial properties.
• Analysis of mechanisms by which PANs combat drug-resistant pathogens, including efflux pump inhibition, cell membrane permeability, biofilm disruption, and quorum sensing inhibition.
• Evaluation of PANs as drug delivery systems and assessment of their safety profiles.

Main Results:

• PANs demonstrate broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against drug-resistant pathogens, primarily through photothermal effects.
• Mechanistic studies reveal PANs can inhibit efflux pumps, disrupt cell membranes, prevent biofilm formation, and interfere with quorum sensing.
• PANs show potential as drug carriers, with strategies discussed to mitigate associated cytotoxicities.

Conclusions:

• Photothermally active nanomaterials represent a promising therapeutic approach to overcome antimicrobial resistance.
• Further research and development are needed to optimize PANs for clinical application, addressing challenges and exploring future prospects.
• PANs offer a multifaceted strategy, combining direct antimicrobial action with potential as drug delivery vehicles.