Nanoparticles targeting biofilms: A new era in combating antimicrobial resistance

Due to biofilms' unique ability to protect bacteria from antibiotics and host immune responses, biofilm-associated infections continue to be a persistent problem and are at the core of the rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Structured microbial communities called biofilms, which are surrounded by an extracellular polymeric matrix that the bacteria manufacture on their own, can increase bacterial resistance to therapy by up to 1,000 times. This protected environment promotes the horizontal transfer of resistance genes in addition to impeding medication efficacy. Nanoparticles (NPs) have become a promising weapon in the fight against biofilms in recent years. They can break down structural integrity, improve antibiotic delivery, and penetrate biofilm matrices because of their unique physicochemical characteristics. This review article highlights the classes of NPs used as anti-biofilm agents —such as metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, polymeric nanocarriers, and lipid-based systems sheds light on their mechanisms of action, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, inhibition of quorum sensing, degradation of biofilm matrix, and enhanced drug permeability. Finally, the challenges in the clinical application of NPs such as nanotoxicity, environmental issues, practical applications and future directions are discussed. • The structure of biofilms plays a major role in making bacteria highly resistant to foreign chemicals like antibiotics and disinfectants. • Despite the discovery of new antibiotics, controlling biofilm forming bacterial infections remains a major threat that causes high morbidity and mortality. • Metal nanoparticles alone and antibiotic-nanoparticle combinations have been effective in the control of biofilm- forming pathogens.