Pharmaceuticals (Dec 2024)

Antibacterial and Anti-Influenza Activities of <i>N</i>-Heterocyclic Carbene–Gold Complexes

  • Michele Pellegrino,
  • Paola Checconi,
  • Jessica Ceramella,
  • Carla Prezioso,
  • Dolores Limongi,
  • Maria Marra,
  • Annaluisa Mariconda,
  • Alessia Catalano,
  • Marta De Angelis,
  • Lucia Nencioni,
  • Maria Stefania Sinicropi,
  • Pasquale Longo,
  • Stefano Aquaro

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17121680
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 17, no. 12
p. 1680

Abstract

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Background/Objectives: Infectious diseases represent a serious threat due to rising antimicrobial resistance, particularly among multidrug-resistant bacteria and influenza viruses. Metal-based complexes, such as N-heterocyclic carbene–gold (NHC–gold) complexes, show promising therapeutic potential due to their ability to inhibit various pathogens. Methods: Eight NHC–gold complexes were synthesized and tested for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and for anti-influenza activity in lung and bronchial epithelial cells infected with influenza virus A/H1N1. Antibacterial activity was assessed through the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), while the viral load was quantified using qRT-PCR. Results: Complexes 3, 4, and 6 showed significant antibacterial activity at concentrations of 10–20 µg/mL. Additionally, these complexes significantly reduced viral load, with complexes 3 and 4 markedly inhibiting replication. Conclusions: These findings support the potential use of NHC–gold complexes in combined antimicrobial and antiviral therapies, representing an attractive option for fighting resistant infections.

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