MXene-based composites against antibiotic-resistant bacteria: current trends and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health threat.
• Novel nanomaterials are being explored for antimicrobial applications.
• MXene-based composites exhibit unique properties beneficial for combating bacteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of MXene-based composites against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• To highlight their antimicrobial mechanisms, including physical damage and photothermal therapy.
• To identify knowledge gaps regarding MXene-bacteria interactions and synergistic therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of MXene-based composites for antibacterial applications.
• Analysis of MXene properties relevant to antimicrobial activity (photothermal effects, active sites, structure).
• Examination of proposed mechanisms of bacterial inactivation (membrane disruption, oxidative stress, photothermal therapy).

Main Results:

• MXene composites demonstrate potent antimicrobial activity through multiple mechanisms.
• Photothermal therapy using MXenes shows potential against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and wound infections.
• Sharp edges of 2D MXenes can physically disrupt bacterial cell membranes.

Conclusions:

• MXene-based composites offer a promising strategy to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Understanding MXene-bacteria interactions and optimizing synergistic therapies are crucial for clinical translation.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate mechanisms and develop effective treatments for multidrug-resistant infections.