Metal complexes against multidrug-resistant bacteria: recent advances (2020-present)

Area of Science:

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Microbiology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections pose a significant global health threat, driven by biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance gene spread.
• Conventional antibiotics are increasingly ineffective, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
• Metal complexes offer multi-target mechanisms against resistant pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances (2020-present) in metal complexes for combating MDR bacteria.
• To emphasize structural motifs, antimicrobial potency, and mechanistic insights of selected metal complexes.
• To provide a framework for developing next-generation metal-based antibacterials.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature focusing on gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), gallium (Ga), iridium (Ir), and ruthenium (Ru) complexes.
• Analysis of studies detailing antimicrobial activity, biofilm penetration, and mechanisms of action.
• Evaluation of toxicity profiles and resistance propensity.

Main Results:

• Metal complexes exhibit dual functionality: biofilm penetration and antimicrobial action via reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and metal homeostasis interference.
• Specific complexes of Au, Ag, Cu, Ga, Ir, and Ru demonstrate potent activity against MDR bacteria through targeted mechanisms.
• Clinical success of metallodrugs like auranofin supports the development of new metal-based therapies.

Conclusions:

• Metal complexes represent a promising avenue for developing novel therapeutics against MDR bacterial infections.
• Targeted design of metal-based agents can overcome limitations of conventional antibiotics.
• Further research into these complexes offers strategic approaches to combat the growing antibiotic resistance crisis.