Targeting foodborne pathogens via surface-functionalized nano-antimicrobials.

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Antimicrobial Agents
• Foodborne Pathogens
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Antimicrobial nanocarriers are developed using non-toxic nanoparticles loaded with antibiotics or bioactive compounds to combat foodborne pathogens.
• Challenges include bacterial intracellular localization and persistence within phagocytic cells, limiting conventional antimicrobial efficacy.
• Nanocarrier systems offer protection, controlled release, and enhanced activity but face barriers to optimal function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review techniques for surface functionalization of antimicrobial-loaded nanocarriers.
• To explore the potential of functional nanoparticles in enhancing antimicrobial performance against foodborne pathogens.
• To highlight strategies for overcoming barriers like intracellular bacterial infections and improving targeted delivery.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on nanocarrier surface modification techniques.
• Analysis of passive and active modification methods for nanocarrier functionalization.
• Examination of functional agents including peptides, ligands, antibodies, and enzymes for targeted delivery.

Main Results:

• Surface functionalization protects nanocarriers from rapid clearance, extending circulation time.
• Targeted delivery strategies significantly increase nanocarrier uptake by host cells.
• Functionalized nanocarriers demonstrate improved efficacy against intracellular and persistent foodborne pathogens.

Conclusions:

• Surface functionalization is a key strategy to enhance the performance of antimicrobial nanocarriers.
• Targeted delivery via functionalized nanoparticles offers a promising approach to combat challenging foodborne pathogens.
• Further research into advanced functionalization techniques can optimize nanocarrier-based antimicrobial therapies.