LPS-focused nanomedicine for potent antibacterial therapy

Abstract

A significant upsurge in antibiotic-resistant infections, mainly due to the Gram-negative bacteria (GNB), is a major global concern. These GNBs carry lipopolysaccharides (LPS), a complex outer membrane component that endows them with structural integrity and acts as a formidable barrier against most antibiotics. Targeting LPS has thus emerged as a promising frontier in antibacterial nanomedicine. This review explores the structure of LPS and its pivotal role in bacterial virulence and immune evasion. We have highlighted diverse nanoparticle-based strategies like antibodies, peptides, aptamers, and small molecules that selectively bind and neutralize the LPS. Additionally, we have tried to present the key mechanisms of action of these NPs, which include membrane disruption, neutralization of the endotoxin, etc. Overall, this review provides a clear picture of how LPS-targeting NPs could aid in combating drug-resistant and deadly infections in the future.

Keywords: Gram-negative bacteria; LPS-targeting; antibacterial; nanoparticles; smart antibacterial nanoparticles.