SYNERGISTIC STRATEGIES: NANOPARTICLES ENHANCING ANTIBIOTIC EFFICACY
Authors: Aisha Fatima Malik, Abdul Rahman Khan
Published: March 2024
Abstract
<p>The term "antibiotic," rooted in the word "antibiosis" (against life), encompasses chemical compounds with the capacity to either kill or impede the growth of bacteria and other pathogens. While antibiotics can be antifungal, antibacterial, or antiviral, the term is generally associated with antibacterial compounds specifically used to combat bacterial diseases. Their mode of action typically involves interference with the host's DNA, RNA, or protein, rendering them effective in treating potentially lethal bacterial infections. Unfortunately, the rampant use of antibiotics has led to an alarming rise in bacterial resistance, contributing significantly to the escalating mortality rates associated with bacterial diseases.</p> <p>Resistance to antibiotics primarily arises through horizontal gene transfer mechanisms, including biofilm creation, transformation, transduction, or bacterial conjugation. To effectively address bacterial diseases, the eradication of antibiotic resistance becomes imperative. Both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria exhibit the ability to form biofilms on medical apparatus, further complicating treatment strategies. Notable bacteria implicated in human diseases include Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli (E. coli), among others.</p> <p>A transformative breakthrough in combatting bacterial resistance and infections lies in the application of nanoparticles. Metallic nanoparticles, such as those composed of gold, silver, or zinc, have shown promising efficacy in the treatment of various bacterial and infectious diseases. The unique properties of these nanoparticles offer targeted and efficient means of addressing bacterial pathogens, overcoming the challenges posed by conventional antibiotic treatments. As research in this area advances, the integration of metallic nanoparticles holds great potential in revolutionizing the landscape of antibacterial therapies, providing novel solutions to the growing crisis of antibiotic resistance.</p>
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