Trends in Photothermal Nanostructures for Antimicrobial Applications

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health threat, exacerbated by widespread antibiotic use and a lack of new drugs.
• Nanotechnology provides advanced materials to combat drug-resistant infections safely and effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of photothermal antibacterial nanomaterials and strategies for optimizing their antimicrobial efficacy.
• To discuss advancements in photothermal nanostructures and their mechanisms against multidrug-resistant bacteria and biofilms.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on photothermal nanomaterials (plasmonic metals, semiconductors, carbon-based, organic polymers).
• Analysis of antibacterial mechanisms, photothermal effect principles, and influencing factors.
• Examination of functionalization, light irradiation effects, and synergistic therapies.

Main Results:

• Photothermal nanomaterials offer controllable hyperthermia for antibacterial applications.
• Various nanostructures show efficacy against multidrug-resistant bacteria and biofilm removal.
• Structure-performance relationships and functionalization strategies are key to optimizing antimicrobial activity.

Conclusions:

• Photothermal nanomaterials represent a next-generation platform for combating AMR.
• Optimized functionalization, light irradiation, and synergistic approaches are crucial for enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects.
• Applications include antibiofilm strategies and infected wound therapy, with ongoing challenges and future clinical potential.