Addressing Carbapenem Beta-Lactam Resistance by Nanotechnology

A class of beta-lactam antibiotics known as carbapenems is used as a last option to treat serious bacterial infections that are resistant to multiple drugs. However, the fast rise of Carbapenem-Resistant Organisms (CROs), a serious threat to world health, is a result of the overuse and misuse of these antibiotics. Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been linked to treatment failure rates of about 40-60% in severe infections, with fatality rates as high as 60% in carbapenem- resistant A. baumannii (CRAB)-associated pneumonia.

This review systematically analyzes recent literature (2010-2024) on the application of carbapenem, the development of different carbapenem resistances, the mechanism of action, and evaluates nanotechnology-based strategies to solve the carbapenem resistance problem.

Nanotechnology-based techniques could offer a solution to this global problem. Nanoparticle-antibiotic combinations have higher antibacterial activity than free antibiotics alone. Significant decreases in MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration) values, improved bactericidal kinetics, a wider zone of inhibition, and strong synergistic interactions were found. Nanocarriers efficiently shielded carbapenems from enzymatic degradation, increased intracellular delivery, and damaged bacterial membranes via a variety of processes, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation.

This systematic review attempts to provide an in-depth analysis of carbapenem resistance with the most recent data in order to assess the role and effect of this combined drug-nanostructure to combat carbapenem resistance. Additionally, it examines and emphasizes preclinical research that treats Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) bacterial infections by combining nanomaterials with antibiotics. By highlighting the benefits of the enhanced antibacterial and antibiofilm qualities and offering a workable plan for combating carbapenem-resistant bacteria, this review significantly contributes to a new understanding of biomedical research.

Nanotechnology-based carbapenem delivery systems are a potent and diverse technique for combating carbapenem resistance. Preclinical investigations have found that employing nanotechnology to treat carbapenem beta-lactam resistance is particularly beneficial. Nanomaterial-based techniques provide unique and effective solutions to the growing antibiotic resistance dilemma by utilizing multi-modal mechanisms of action that bypass standard bacterial defense routes. Drug-nanoparticle conjugation improves antibacterial activity, lowers resistance development, and provides a realistic method to extend the therapeutic life of carbapenem antibiotics.