Researchers at the National University of Singapore have developed self-assembling "nanonetworks" that
Nanoparticles developed by bioengineersare small peptides consisting of 15-16 amino acid residues. These particles are "idle" until they find a specific trigger - two molecules that are key components of bacterial membranes.
In the presence of trigger molecules, peptidefragments attach to bacteria and begin to grow into elongated scleroproteins or fibrillar proteins. As a result of the growth of such structures, an intricate network is formed into which harmful microorganisms are captured. This prevents their growth and spread, and in the presence of antimicrobial substances, it helps to completely destroy bacteria and prevent the development of an infectious disease.
The principle of operation of nanoparticles and nanonetworks under a microscope. Image: Nhan Dai Thien Tram et al., Advanced Functional Materials
The researchers note that the components of the peptidescan be configured to search for and identify different bacteria. In tests on mice, nanonetworks have been shown to be effective against bacteria resistant to colistin (the antibiotic "last line of defense"). Bioengineers have found that nanoparticles are not destroyed by digestive enzymes, cope with infection and do not cause toxic side effects.
Our peptide-based nanonetworksdemonstrated potential as an alternative anti-infective strategy to combat antibiotic resistance. The next challenge is to optimize the design for human clinical trials.
Rachel I, associate professor at the National University of Singapore and co-author of the study
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Cover image: NUS