Phytochemical-Based Nanomaterials against Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: An Updated Review

Abstract

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) is a growing global health threat, leading to the search for alternative strategies to combat bacterial infections. Phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring compounds found in plants, have shown potential as antimicrobial agents; however, therapy with these agents has certain limitations. The use of nanotechnology combined with antibacterial phytochemicals could help achieve greater antibacterial capacity against ARB by providing improved mechanical, physicochemical, biopharmaceutical, bioavailability, morphological or release properties. This review aims to provide an updated overview of the current state of research on the use of phytochemical-based nanomaterials for the treatment against ARB, with a special focus on polymeric nanofibers and nanoparticles. The review discusses the various types of phytochemicals that have been incorporated into different nanomaterials, the methods used to synthesize these materials, and the results of studies evaluating their antimicrobial activity. The challenges and limitations of using phytochemical-based nanomaterials, as well as future directions for research in this field, are also considered here. Overall, this review highlights the potential of phytochemical-based nanomaterials as a promising strategy for the treatment against ARB, but also stresses the need for further studies to fully understand their mechanisms of action and optimize their use in clinical settings.

Literature Review on Conjugated Polymers as Light-Sensitive Materials for Photovoltaic and Light-Emitting Devices in Photonic Biomaterial Applications

“…Strategies based on nanomaterials, especially those not dependent on traditional small-molecule antibiotics, show potential, largely because they can bypass the mechanisms employed by drug-resistant bacteria. Consequently, the utilization of nanomaterial-based formulations has garnered interest in the realm of antibiotic therapy [44,45]. With advancements in optical technology and the emergence of novel photosensitizers, photodynamic antibacterial therapy (PDAT) has emerged as one of the most promising approaches for combating infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria.…”

Synergistic Effect of Plant Compounds in Combination with Conventional Antimicrobials against Biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida spp.

“…Previous studies have focused on the antibiofilm potential of various plant natural compounds including phenols, essential oils, terpenoids, lectins, alkaloids, polypeptides, and polyacetylenes, demonstrating that they not only inhibit biofilm formation but also eliminate mature biofilm structures [129,133]. The combination of plant extracts and antibiotics represents a template for developing antibiofilm drugs against P. aeruginosa biofilm-associated infections [134]. Several active substances present in ginger (Z. officinale) such as gingerols, shogaols, paradols, gingerdiols, and zingerone have been widely used in traditional herbal medicine [129].…”

A Review of Abdominal Meshes for Hernia Repair—Current Status and Emerging Solutions

“…In recent years, nanotechnology has also gained ground for antimicrobial applications, the properties of nano-sized materials being appealing for creating numerous formulations effective in preventing and fighting against various infections [49,[54][55][56][57][58]. Thus, it is no surprise that nanomaterials also became attractive for enhancing infection-resistant features of abdominal meshes.…”