Why Use Nanotechnology for Antimicrobial Therapies?
Traditional antimicrobial agents face challenges such as antibiotic resistance, limited spectrum of action, and potential toxicity. Nanoparticles offer several advantages:
Enhanced Efficacy: Nanoparticles can be engineered to have high surface area-to-volume ratios, improving their interaction with microbial cells. Targeted Delivery: Nanoparticles can be functionalized to target specific microbes or infected tissues, reducing collateral damage to healthy cells. Reduced Resistance: The mechanisms by which nanoparticles kill microbes are often different from traditional antibiotics, potentially reducing the development of resistance. Versatility: Nanoparticles can be tailored to carry multiple therapeutic agents, enhancing their antimicrobial spectrum.