Metal-Based Nanoparticles: A Prospective Strategy for Helicobacter pylori Treatment

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is an infectious pathogen and the leading cause of gastrointestinal diseases, including gastric adenocarcinoma. Currently, bismuth quadruple therapy is the recommended first-line treatment, and it is reported to be highly effective, with >90% eradication rates on a consistent basis. However, the overuse of antibiotics causes H. pylori to become increasingly resistant to antibiotics, making its eradication unlikely in the foreseeable future. Besides, the effect of antibiotic treatments on the gut microbiota also needs to be considered. Therefore, effective, selective, antibiotic-free antibacterial strategies are urgently required. Due to their unique physiochemical properties, such as the release of metal ions, the generation of reactive oxygen species, and photothermal/photodynamic effects, metal-based nanoparticles have attracted a great deal of interest. In this article, we review recent advances in the design, antimicrobial mechanisms and applications of metal-based nanoparticles for the eradication of H. pylori. Additionally, we discuss current challenges in this field and future perspectives that may be used in anti -H. pylori strategies.

Automated summary

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a pathogen that causes gastrointestinal diseases, including gastric adenocarcinoma. Antibiotic treatments, such as bismuth quadruple therapy, are currently effective but overuse of antibiotics has led to increasing resistance. Metal-based nanoparticles, with their unique properties, have shown potential as antibiotic-free antibacterial strategies. This article reviews recent advances in the design, mechanisms, and applications of metal-based nanoparticles for eradicating H. pylori.