Antibiotic loaded solid lipid nanoparticles target bacteria in a pyogenic spondylitis rat model

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Pyogenic spondylitis requires prolonged high-dose antibiotic treatment.
• Current therapies lack targeted bacterial delivery, potentially leading to suboptimal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for enhanced bacterial targeting in pyogenic spondylitis.
• To functionalize ampicillin (AMP)-loaded SLNs with the peptide LL-37 to improve therapeutic efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Preparation and characterization of LL-37 functionalized AMP-loaded SLNs (LL-37@AMP-SLNs).
• Evaluation of physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, morphology, drug release, and hemocompatibility.
• Assessment of antibacterial activity, bacterial-targeting capability, and therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in a rat model of pyogenic spondylitis.

Main Results:

• LL-37@AMP-SLNs showed sustained ampicillin release over four days.
• Enhanced antibacterial activity and bacterial targeting compared to unmodified SLNs and AMP-SLNs.
• Significant reduction in bacterial burden and improved therapeutic outcomes in a pyogenic spondylitis rat model.

Conclusions:

• LL-37@AMP-SLNs demonstrate superior antibacterial effects by targeting bacterial cell membranes and walls.
• This novel nanoparticle formulation offers a promising therapeutic strategy for pyogenic spondylitis by improving bacterial targeting and efficacy.