Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Biofilm Treatment and Infection Control: From Basic Research to Clinical Translation

Multidrug-resistant bacteria represent a growing threat to human health worldwide and are caused by the overuse and misuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Therefore, the need for alternative, innovative intervention strategies arose and metallic nanoparticles, e.g. based on silver, gold, zinc, copper, iron, titanium, and selenium, stand out as novel agents to effectively control the proliferation of multidrug-resistant bacteria. In recent years, numerous studies have proposed mechanisms by which metallic nanoparticles target and kill bacteria, mostly based on their small size, which renders them highly reactive and effective in penetrating biofilms. However, research has shown that monotherapy is often not sufficient to eradicate biofilm-forming pathogens and annihilate established biofilms. Therefore, synergistic formulations combining multiple antibacterial agents are emerging as one of the most promising approaches. Recent advances in in vitro and in vivo experiments are paving the way for clinical trials, already showing promising results of metallic nanoparticles as wound dressing, implant coating, or rinse solution against bacteria causing oral, nasal, or skin infections. More clinical trials are expected to occur in the future, promoting metallic nanoparticles as innovative antimicrobial therapy. This chapter reviews recent advances in the use of metallic nanoparticles as a promising strategy to control biofilm infections.