What Do You Need to Know About Nanoparticles? Read on to learn the basics and how this technology can replace antibiotics. Nanoparticles are small, biodegradable particles made from polymer molecules that attack bacterial cells on both a physical and chemical level. When these nanoparticles break into bacteria, they destroy their cell walls and membranes, which prevents bacteria from building resistance to the antibacterial agent. Eventually, these nanoparticles may even be injected into the body to treat conditions like MDR-TB, as well as applied directly to the skin in the form of hydrogels to treat skin infections.
Nanoparticles could be a Powerful Solution to the Problem of Antibiotic Resistance
As antibiotics become less effective, the search for alternatives is on. Although synthetic chemistry has been at the forefront of the development of alternatives, scientists are also investigating natural products for use as antimicrobials. In one recent study, researchers found that a polylactic acid molecule, a known antibacterial preservative, can act as a powerful antimicrobial nanoparticle. These nanoparticles are non-toxic, biodegradable, and compatible with human cells.
In the case of antibiotics, nanoparticles can shuttle the molecules to the site of infection. They can also protect the antibiotic molecules from degradation, which can lead to reduced dosages. Nanoparticles can also target specific tissues and release cargo in response to specific stimuli. Therefore, they could be a powerful solution to the problem of antibiotic resistance. However, these solutions are still in their infancy, and many other technologies and research are needed to develop them.
Nanoparticles could be Key to Blocking the Bacterial Proteins and Killing the Bacteria in the Cellular Environment
A recent study in mice demonstrated that microscopic nanoparticles could be key to blocking the bacterial proteins and killing the bacteria in the cellular environment. Nanoparticles are 1/100 of the size of a bacteria and are capable of forming various shapes. They are designed to nestle in the nooks where these bacterial proteins work. By blocking the bacterial proteins, nanoparticles could prevent the spread of an infection, and may even reduce the risk of a secondary infection. In a few years, nanoparticles may replace antibiotics as a viable option for treating many difficult-to-treat bacterial infections.
Scientists have suggested that nanoparticles could replace some or all of the current antibiotics in the world. In addition to being safe for human consumption, they may be able to prevent the development of plant resistance to antibiotics. This study also showed that nanoparticles can effectively kill fungi in plant cells. Nanoparticles can be made from natural synthesizing compounds such as lemongrass and chlorella.
New Treatments could soon be Available to the General Public
Research on nanoparticles is already underway. These particles are capable of localizing antibiotics in the body, allowing the therapeutic dose to be reduced to a minimum. Furthermore, they are able to target the pathogen using different mechanisms. One effective strategy involves combining antibacterial agents with liposomes to block efflux pumps and overcome the bacterial resistance mechanism. In addition, these nanoparticles have the potential to replace many current antibiotics and enable a free drug therapy for humans.
Advances in nanotechnology have also spawned the potential of nanoparticles as antibiotics. While they have been around for a couple of decades, they are still experimental, but some have shown promise in demonstrating the ability to fight bacterial infections. By modifying the biopharmaceutical properties of these nanoparticles, these new treatments could soon be available to the general public. So, what Are You Waiting For?
Conventional Antimicrobials are not very Effective in Improving the Survival Rates of Infectious Patients
As the first generation of new generation antibiotics, nanoparticles are exciting. Scientists are studying the various facets of their antibacterial activity, and how they can act as carriers of antibiotics. The most promising aspect of nanoparticles is that they are smaller than bacteria, and therefore have more surface area than their equivalent. The smaller the particles, the more effective they are at combating bacteria.
As we know, antibiotic resistance is an important public health concern. Despite advances in the field of nanomedicine, conventional antimicrobials are not very effective in improving the survival rates of infectious patients. With antibiotic-loaded nanoparticles, nanomedicine can improve the efficiency of an antibacterial regimen. Nanosystems for antibiotic delivery can increase their solubility, enhance their stability, and improve the penetration of antibiotics in tissues. Furthermore, they are less likely to produce side effects and have increased bioavailability.