Combating Microbial Infections Using Metal-Based Nanoparticles as Potential Therapeutic Alternatives

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Microbiology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Microbial resistance to antimicrobials is a growing concern.
• Metals and metallic compounds are emerging as effective antimicrobial agents.
• Co-evolution of microbes and antimicrobials necessitates novel strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the antimicrobial efficacy of metals and metallic compounds.
• To explore the mechanisms of action of metal-based antimicrobials.
• To highlight the role of nanoparticles in antimicrobial applications.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of electronic databases (PubMed, Springer, Science Direct).
• Inclusion of marketed products, patents, and clinical trial data.
• Review of studies on various microbial species and strains.

Main Results:

• Metals like silver, copper, gold, iron, and gallium exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
• Metal-carrying formulations effectively inhibit microbial growth, multiplication, and biofilm formation.
• Nanoparticles and nanosystems demonstrate enhanced antimicrobial properties.

Conclusions:

• Metals offer a promising alternative to conventional antimicrobials.
• Mechanisms include membrane disruption, oxidative stress, and protein/enzyme interaction.
• Nanotechnology enhances the delivery and efficacy of metal-based antimicrobials.