Nanoparticles in Antibacterial Therapy: A Systematic Review of Enhanced Efficacy against Intracellular Bacteria
Pablo Mendez-Pfeiffer1,2, Manuel G Ballesteros Monrreal2, Mayra A Mendez-Encinas2
1Departamento de Bionanotecnología, Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Km 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Ensenada, Baja California 22860, México.
Abstract:
Intracellular bacterial infections represent a considerable therapeutic challenge due to the ability of pathogens to invade and replicate within host cells, hampering the action of the immune system and the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics. Bacteria such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Listeria monocytogenes, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), among others, can persist within host cells, allowing them to evade the immune response and develop resistance to antibacterial treatments. A key factor in the persistence of these infections is the ability of bacteria to enter a dormant state, which reduces their susceptibility to antibiotics that affect the dividing cells. Nanotechnology is emerging as a promising solution as nanoparticle-based systems can improve the intracellular penetration of antibiotics, allow their controlled release, and reduce side effects. This review covers the development and efficacy of nanoparticle-encapsulated antibiotics in models of intracellular infections, highlighting the need to further investigate their potential to overcome the barriers of conventional therapies and improve the treatment of these complex infections.
Insights
Nanotechnology offers a promising solution for intracellular bacterial infections, enhancing antibiotic delivery and efficacy. Nanoparticle-encapsulated antibiotics show potential to overcome treatment challenges posed by persistent pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology and Nanomedicine
- Infectious Diseases and Drug Delivery
Background:
- Intracellular bacterial infections pose significant therapeutic challenges due to pathogen evasion of host defenses and conventional antibiotics.
- Persistent bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Listeria monocytogenes, and MRSA, can enter dormant states, reducing antibiotic susceptibility.
- Conventional treatments are often ineffective against intracellular bacteria, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development and efficacy of nanoparticle-encapsulated antibiotics for treating intracellular bacterial infections.
- To highlight the potential of nanotechnology to overcome limitations of current antibacterial therapies.
- To underscore the need for further research into nanomedicine for complex infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for intracellular pathogens.
- Analysis of studies evaluating the efficacy of encapsulated antibiotics in relevant infection models.
- Synthesis of findings on improved intracellular penetration, controlled release, and reduced side effects.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticle systems demonstrate enhanced intracellular penetration of antibiotics.
- Controlled release of encapsulated antibiotics improves therapeutic outcomes.
- Nanotechnology-based approaches show potential in reducing side effects associated with conventional treatments.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticle-encapsulated antibiotics represent a promising strategy to combat intracellular bacterial infections.
- Further investigation is crucial to fully realize the potential of nanomedicine in treating persistent and complex infections.
- Nanotechnology offers a viable path to improve the effectiveness of antibacterial therapies against challenging pathogens.
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