Nanobiotics against antimicrobial resistance: harnessing the power of nanoscale materials and technologies

Given the spasmodic increment in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), world is on the verge of post-antibiotic era. It is anticipated that current SARS-CoV2 pandemic would worsen the situation in future, mainly due to the lack of new/next generation of antimicrobials. In this context, nanoscale materials with antimicrobial potential have a great promise to treat deadly pathogens. These functional materials are uniquely positioned to effectively interfere with the bacterial systems and augment biofilm penetration. Most importantly, the core substance, surface chemistry, shape, and size of nanomaterials define their efficacy while avoiding the development of AMR. Here, we review the mechanisms of AMR and emerging applications of nanoscale functional materials as an excellent substitute for conventional antibiotics. We discuss the potential, promises, challenges and prospects of nanobiotics to combat AMR.

Automated summary

With the increment in antimicrobial resistance, the world is on the brink of a post-antibiotic era. The current COVID-19 pandemic is expected to exacerbate the situation due to the lack of new antimicrobial drugs. Nanoscale materials have the potential to effectively treat deadly pathogens and avoid the development of antimicrobial resistance.