International Journal of Nanomedicine (Feb 2018)
Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for control of microbial biofilms: a review
Abstract
Matheus Aparecido Dos Santos Ramos,1 Patrícia Bento Da Silva,2 Larissa Spósito,1 Luciani Gaspar De Toledo,1 Bruna Vidal Bonifácio,1 Camila Fernanda Rodero,2 Karen Cristina Dos Santos,2 Marlus Chorilli,2 Taís Maria Bauab1 1São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, Department of Biological Sciences, Araraquara, SP, Brazil; 2São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, Department of Drugs and Medicines. Araraquara, SP, Brazil Abstract: Since the dawn of civilization, it has been understood that pathogenic microorganisms cause infectious conditions in humans, which at times, may prove fatal. Among the different virulent properties of microorganisms is their ability to form biofilms, which has been directly related to the development of chronic infections with increased disease severity. A problem in the elimination of such complex structures (biofilms) is resistance to the drugs that are currently used in clinical practice, and therefore, it becomes imperative to search for new compounds that have anti-biofilm activity. In this context, nanotechnology provides secure platforms for targeted delivery of drugs to treat numerous microbial infections that are caused by biofilms. Among the many applications of such nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems is their ability to enhance the bioactive potential of therapeutic agents. The present study reports the use of important nanoparticles, such as liposomes, microemulsions, cyclodextrins, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and metallic nanoparticles, in controlling microbial biofilms by targeted drug delivery. Such utilization of these nanosystems has led to a better understanding of their applications and their role in combating biofilms. Keywords: nanotechnology systems, microbial biofilms, anti-biofilm activity
