Bacterial biofilms commonly cause chronic and persistent infections in humans. Bacterial biofilms consist of an inner layer of bacteria and an autocrine extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Biofilm dispersants (abbreviated as dispersants) have proven effective in removing the bacterial physical protection barrier EPS. Dispersants are generally weak or have no bactericidal effect.
Bacteria… within biofilms… may be more invasive, adhesive, and motile than planktonic bacteria, characteristics that increase the probability that dispersed bacteria will recolonize and cause reinfection. [Bold JS]
The dispersants should be combined with antimicrobials to avoid the risk of severe reinfection. Dispersant-based nanoparticles [against biofilms] have the advantage of specific release and intense penetration, which is a prerequisite for enhancing the efficacy of antibacterial agents and eradicating biofilms. Dispersant-based nanoparticles delivered antimicrobial agents for the treatment of diseases associated with bacterial biofilm infections are expected to be an effective measure to prevent reinfection caused by dispersed bacteria.
Key points
- Dispersed bacteria harm and the dispersant’s dispersion mechanisms are discussed.
- The advantages of dispersant-based nanoparticles in bacteria biofilms are discussed.
- Dispersant-based nanoparticles for cutting off reinfection in vivo are highlighted.
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Li X, Lin S, Wang Y, Chen Y, Zhang W, Shu G, Li H, Xu F, Lin J, Peng G, Fu H. Application of biofilm dispersion-based nanoparticles in cutting off reinfection. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2024 Jun 19;108(1):386. doi: 10.1007/s00253-024-13120-7. PMID: 38896257; PMCID: PMC11186951.