Applications of Nanoparticles in Antimicrobial Therapy: Current Status and Way Forward

Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a critical public health challenge due to the overuse of antibiotics in clinical treatments, agriculture, animal healthcare, and the food industry. This issue has not only diminished the efficacy of existing therapies, but also impeded effective management of infectious diseases, underscoring the urgent need for innovative solutions. Nanoparticles (NPs) have garnered significant attention as a promising approach to combat AMR. Their unique properties, including a high surface area-to-volume ratio, excellent bioavailability, targeted drug delivery capabilities, prolonged circulation time in the bloodstream, and reduced antibiotic dosage and toxicity, have made them highly effective tools in antimicrobial therapies. This review involves an exploration of the mechanisms of action of antimicrobial NPs, followed by an analysis of the unique characteristics and advantages of various NP types in addressing AMR. Additionally, it examines the potential challenges associated with NP-based antimicrobial therapies and provides future perspectives on their applications. By offering comprehensive insights, this review aimed to enhance an understanding of NP applications in combating AMR and provide recommendations for advancing research to optimize their integration into the healthcare sector, ultimately mitigating AMR';s global impact on public health.