The role of nanotechnology-based approaches for clinical infectious diseases and public health

Abstract

Given the high incidence of infection and the growing resistance of bacterial and viral infections to the traditional antiseptic, the need for novel antiseptics is critical. Therefore, novel approaches are urgently required to reduce the activity of bacterial and viral infections. Nanotechnology is increasingly being exploited for medical purposes and is of significant interest in eliminating or limiting the activity of various pathogens. Due to the increased surface-to-volume ratio of a given mass of particles, the antimicrobial properties of some naturally occurring antibacterial materials, such as zinc and silver, increase as particle size decreases into the nanometer regime. However, the physical structure of a nanoparticle and the way it interacts with and penetrates the bacteria also appear to provide unique bactericidal mechanisms. To measure the efficacy of nanoparticles (diameter 100 nm) as antimicrobial agents, it is necessary to comprehend the range of approaches for evaluating the viability of bacteria; each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. The nanotechnology-based disinfectants and sensors for SARS-CoV-2 provide a roadmap for creating more effective sensors and disinfectants for detecting and preventing coronaviruses and other infections. Moreover, there is an increasing role of nanotechnology-based approaches in various infections, including wound healing and related infection, nosocomial infections, and various bacterial infections. To meet the demand for patient care, nanotechnology-based disinfectants need to be further advanced with optimum approaches. Herein, we review the current burden of infectious diseases with a focus on SARS-CoV-2 and bacterial infection that significantly burdens developed healthcare systems and small healthcare communities. We then highlight how nanotechnology could aid in improving existing treatment modalities and diagnosis of those infectious agents. Finally, we conclude the current development and future perspective of nanotechnology for combating infectious diseases. The overall goal is to update healthcare providers on the existing role and future of nanotechnology in tackling those common infectious diseases.

Keywords: ICU; SARS-CoV-2 (2019-nCoV); antiseptic; bio-kil; intensive care unit; nanotechnology.

FIGURE 1

Future potential for nanotechnology advancement in critical care medicine study and experimentation in the next years.

FIGURE 2

Viral disinfectants based on nanotechnology protect against SARS-CoV-2 by preventing viral propagation on surfaces, in the air, and in safety equipment. .

FIGURE 3

Changes in free radical generation and membrane permeability, which cause protein and DNA damage, are two mechanisms of NPsactivity in bacterial cells (L. Wang et al., 2017).

FIGURE 4

Application of Bio-Kil bacteria killing nanotechnology in the intensive care unit. (A) Ten sets of new textiles (pillow cases, bed sheets, duvet covers, and patient clothing) were provided by the researchers for both S-19 and S-20. Clothing for family members, nurses, and doctors were routinely provided by the hospital. All the textiles placed in S-20 were treated by Bio-Kil solution. (B) All room walls in S-20 were treated evenly with Bio-Kil solution. (C) Bio-Kil solution was sprayed evenly on the air filter and the ceiling in S-20. (D) A Bio-Kil antibacterial silicon pad (50 cm × 50 cm) was placed over the instrument panel and computer keyboard in the nursing station in the S-20 ward. Reproduced with permission from (Hsueh et al., 2014).

FIGURE 5

Bacterial culture sampling by swabbing a 10 cm × 10 cm square of (A) bed sheet, (B) bedrail, (C) a telephone keypad and cement wall enclosed with a Bio-Kil silicon pad. (D) A telephone keypad covered with a Bio-Kil silicon pad. Reproduced with permission from (Hsueh et al., 2014).