Antibiotic-Loaded Gold Nanoparticles: A Nano-Arsenal against ESBL Producer-Resistant Pathogens

Abstract

The advent of new antibiotics has helped clinicians to control severe bacterial infections. Despite this, inappropriate and redundant use of antibiotics, inadequate diagnosis, and smart resistant mechanisms developed by pathogens sometimes lead to the failure of treatment strategies. The genotypic analysis of clinical samples revealed that the rapid spread of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) genes is one of the most common approaches acquired by bacterial pathogens to become resistant. The scenario compelled the researchers to prioritize the design and development of novel and effective therapeutic options. Nanotechnology has emerged as a plausible groundbreaking tool against resistant infectious pathogens. Numerous reports suggested that inorganic nanomaterials, specifically gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have converted unresponsive antibiotics into potent ones against multi-drug resistant pathogenic strains. Interestingly, after almost two decades of exhaustive preclinical evaluations, AuNPs are gradually progressively moving ahead toward clinical evaluations. However, the mechanistic aspects of the antibacterial action of AuNPs remain an unsolved puzzle for the scientific fraternity. Thus, the review covers state-of-the-art investigations pertaining to the efficacy of AuNPs as a tool to overcome ESBLs acquired resistance, their applicability and toxicity perspectives, and the revelation of the most appropriate proposed mechanism of action. Conclusively, the trend suggested that antibiotic-loaded AuNPs could be developed into a promising interventional strategy to limit and overcome the concerns of antibiotic-resistance.

Streptomyces monashensis MSK03-mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles: characterization and antibacterial activity

“…Thus, the AuNPs not only facilitate antibiotic penetration into bacteria but also have a synergistic effect. 95 Green synthesis AuNPs have been reported to have a synergistic effect with antibiotics. For instance, Garcinia mangostana extract was employed in one study to bio-synthesize AuNPs, which were then conjugated with streptomycin and azithromycin.…”

An Overview of Stimuli-Responsive Intelligent Antibacterial Nanomaterials

“…Nanomaterials possess unique physical and chemical properties that are strongly influenced by their size. They can form three-dimensional, multi-component structures, enabling the delivery of hydrophobic molecules and overcoming various biological barriers, thereby selectively targeting specific sites in the living body [ 27 , 28 , 29 ].…”

How Combined Macrolide Nanomaterials are Effective Against Resistant Pathogens? A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

“… Enhanced susceptibility than the free drug [ 83 ] Azithromycin Gold NPs Numerous reports suggested that inorganic nanomaterials, specifically gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have converted unresponsive antibiotics into potent ones against multi-drug resistant pathogenic strains. [ 87 , 91 ] Niosomal Delivery Mean minimal inhibitory concentration significantly lower than free AZM. More effective against extensively drug-resistant K. pneumoniae [ 92 ] Liposomal NPs Synergized the antibacterial effect of the entrapped AZT.…”