Nano-antimicrobials: A New Paradigm for Combating Mycobacterial Resistance

Abstract

Background: Mycobacterium group contains several pathogenic bacteria including M. tuberculosis where the emergence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) is alarming for human and animal health around the world. The condition has further aggravated due to the speed of discovery of the newer drugs has been outpaced by the rate of resistance developed in microorganisms, thus requiring alternative combat strategies. For this purpose, nano-antimicrobials have emerged as a potential option. Objective: The current review is focused on providing a detailed account of nanocarriers like liposome, micelles, dendrimers, solid lipid NPs, niosomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nano-suspensions, nano-emulsion, mesoporous silica and alginate-based drug delivery systems along with the recent updates on developments regarding nanoparticle-based therapeutics, vaccines and diagnostic methods developed or under pipeline with their potential benefits and limitations to combat mycobacterial diseases for their successful eradication from the world in future. Results: Distinct morphology and the underlying mechanism of pathogenesis and resistance development in this group of organisms urge improved and novel methods for the early and efficient diagnosis, treatment and vaccination to eradicate the disease. Recent developments in nanotechnology have the potential to meet both the aspects: nano-materials are proven components of several efficient targeted drug delivery systems and the typical physicochemical properties of several nano-formulations have shown to possess distinct bacteriocidal properties. Along with the therapeutic aspects, nano-vaccines and theranostic applications of nano-formulations have grown in popularity in recent times as an effective alternative means to combat different microbial superbugs. Conclusion: Nanomedicine holds a bright prospect to perform a key role in global tuberculosis elimination program.

Coating of a Novel Antimicrobial Nanoparticle with a Macrophage Membrane for the Selective Entry into Infected Macrophages and Killing of Intracellular Staphylococci

“…Along similar lines, very recently, peritoneal liposomal vancomycin was demonstrated to reduce S. aureus kidney infection and mouse mortality, even when administered a day after infection. [ 11 ] Innovative lysosomal carriers are also being developed for tuberculosis therapy, [ 75 ] including liposomes for antibiotic delivery and immunization. [ 76 ] In addition, nanoparticles can be employed for tuberculosis therapy by promoting phagolysosome fusion (by metformin), phagosome acidification and maturation (imatinib), by inhibition of phagolysosome fusion (ManLAM), and by phagosome destabilization (ESX‐1).…”

Recent Advances in Polymeric Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Drugs against Intracellular Infections

“…It used PNs functionalized with the Fc fragment of IgG to target neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) through an FcRn-mediated transcytosis mechanism so the PNs can finally overstep the intestinal epithelium. Valuable information that may be of interest to the reader have also been reviewed elsewhere regarding nanotherapeutics of leishmaniasis [ 120 , 236 , 237 ], tuberculosis [ 238 , 239 , 240 , 241 , 242 ], viral infections [ 243 , 244 ], HIV [ 245 , 246 , 247 , 248 , 249 ], malaria [ 118 , 250 , 251 , 252 ], infectious diseases [ 4 , 45 , 66 , 253 ], intracellular delivery [ 59 , 60 , 64 , 83 , 254 , 255 ], bacterial pathogens [ 46 , 192 , 256 , 257 , 258 , 259 ] and stimuli-responsive systems [ 15 , 58 , 260 , 261 , 262 ].…”

Mycogenic Metal Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Mycobacterioses

“…Combination therapy for mycobacterial infections can increase the potential activity of MNPs, contribute to decrease the effective dose of antibiotics potentiating them; reduce side effects, drug toxicity, and MNPs toxicity; enhance bioavailability; and enhance solubility and retention time [ 103 , 124 ].…”

“…Despite the well-recognized advantages of MNPs as one of the best alternatives against antimicrobial-resistant strains of mycobacteria and other taxa, several challenges and opportunities are ahead of us. Given that the effects of NPs result from a combination of multiple, synergistic mechanisms, the potential development of resistance against them is more arduous and less likely [ 124 ]. One should note, however, that NPs are unlikely to offer a full, definitive solution, and their misuse should be avoided, as it can lead to further issues.…”