Application of Phage-Modified Conjugated Polymer-Based Nanoparticles in the Disruption of Bacterial Biofilms

Photothermal antimicrobial therapy (PTT) has demonstrated significant potential in eradicating biofilms and reducing bacterial resistance. However, a major drawback of traditional PTT is the lack of selectivity, which reduces the efficiency and can cause substantial damage to healthy cells and tissues. Therefore, improving the precision of photochemical therapy against pathogenic bacteria is critical. This study leverages the high targeting specificity of bacteriophages to develop a bacteriophage-modified, near-infrared-responsive conjugated polymer nanosystem for targeted elimination of bacteria and effective biofilm disruption. The developed nanosystem integrates multiple functions, including bacterial targeting, photothermal sterilization, and drug delivery. In vitro antibacterial and biofilm assays demonstrate that the system exhibits enhanced targeting precision and effective bactericidal activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study highlights the potential of such a multifunctional approach to address bacterial resistance and advance therapeutic applications in combating bacterial infections.