Nanotechnology based anti-infectives to fight microbial intrusions

Abstract

SummaryWith the rise in human population across the globe especially in developing countries, the incidence of microbial infections are increasing with greater pace. On the other hand, available medication and therapies are found to be insufficient for the complete cure of such microbial infections due to the development of resistance against various antibiotics. Therefore, to cope up the menace of microbial infections and drug resistance, there is demand for new and compelling technology, which has the ability to impede these problems. Many research groups worldwide are finding a ray of hope in nanomaterials owing to their unique properties. In the present review we have discussed the reasons behind the development of new materials based on nanotechnology. It is mainly focused on pioneering studies on application of nanomaterials like carbon nanotube, fullerene, dendrimers, nanocomposite and metal nanoparticles in combating dreadful pathogens. Moreover, the concerns about their toxicity have also been discussed.

Silver and gold nanoparticles synthesized from Streptomyces sp. isolated from acid forest soil with special reference to its antibacterial activity against pathogens

“…was found to be -17.7 ± 5.3 mV. The difference in zeta potential values of metal nanoparticles, including silver and gold NPs, previously reported by authors may be connected with different conditions of synthesis process and differences between bacteria isolates [14,[57][58][59].…”

“…It was reported that zeta potential value closer to -30 mV indicate that metal nanoparticles are more stable [40,57]. The analyses of all tested metal nanoparticles revealed the negative values of zeta potential.…”

Nanomedicines for the Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs)

“…Most importantly, antimicrobial NPs tackle multiple biological pathways found in broad species of microbes and many concurrent mutations would have to occur to develop resistance against NPs' antimicrobial activities. Preparation of antimicrobial NPs could be cost-effective, compared to antibiotics synthesis, furthermore they are stable enough for long-term storage with a prolonged shelf-life [37]. In addition, some NPs can withstand harsh conditions, such as high-temperature sterilization, under which conventional antibiotics are inactivated.…”

“…In addition, some NPs can withstand harsh conditions, such as high-temperature sterilization, under which conventional antibiotics are inactivated. Antibiotics delivery using nanomaterials offer multiple advantages: i) controllable and relatively uniform distribution in the target tissue; ii) improved solubility; iii) sustained and controlled release; iv) improved patientcompliance; v) minimized side effects; and vi) enhanced cellular internalization [16,37]. Nanomaterials (Figure 3), which either show antimicrobial activity by themselves or elevate the effectiveness and safety of antibiotics administration [10,13], are called "nano-antibiotics" and their capability of controlling infections in vitro and in vivo has been explored and demonstrated.…”

Innovative Modifications for Preventing Mesh Infections

“…It is poorly soluble and this can be limiting its use. After its contact with the bacteria, the carbon nanotubes directly puncture the membrane and membrane oxidation follows [127][128][129].…”