Novel Lignin Nanoparticles with Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus Mastitis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes mastitis in dairy animals, characterized by robust biofilm formation.
• Existing treatments face challenges due to resistance and environmental concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel, eco-friendly nano-therapeutic platform for treating MRSA-induced mastitis.
• To investigate the antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, and immunomodulatory properties of Carthamus tinctorius L. extract-functionalized lignin nanoparticles (CTLe@LigNPs).

Main Methods:

• CTLe@LigNPs were synthesized using a one-pot ultrasound-assisted method.
• Nanoparticle characterization included size, stability, drug loading, and release kinetics.
• In vitro assays assessed cytotoxicity, planktonic bacterial eradication, and biofilm disruption.
• An in vivo rat mastitis model was used to evaluate therapeutic efficacy and immunomodulatory effects.

Main Results:

• CTLe@LigNPs exhibited high colloidal stability, efficient loading, and sustained release.
• Effective eradication of planktonic S. aureus (MIC = 125 µg/mL) and significant disruption of pre-formed biofilms (71.38% inhibition).
• In vivo studies showed amelioration of mastitis symptoms, improved hematological parameters, and significant modulation of inflammatory and antioxidant pathways.

Conclusions:

• CTLe@LigNPs represent a promising multifunctional nano-antimicrobial and immunomodulatory platform for treating S. aureus mastitis.
• The developed nanoparticles demonstrate potential for clinical translation in veterinary medicine.
• This approach offers an eco-friendly alternative for combating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in livestock.