Nanotechnology-Based Strategies against Antimicrobial Resistance: Current Status and Future Prospects

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly escalating global health crisis that threatens the effective treatment of infectious diseases. The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, coupled with the declining discovery of new antibiotics, has necessitated the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach owing to its unique physicochemical properties, enabling targeted drug delivery, improved antimicrobial efficacy, enhanced biofilm penetration, and reduced systemic toxicity. This review aims to summarize recent advances in nanotechnology-based strategies for combating AMR, highlighting the mechanisms of action, therapeutic applications, current research progress, and future translational prospects. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles published in recent years. Studies focusing on nanoparticle-based antimicrobial therapies, drug delivery systems, biofilm-targeting approaches, and clinical advancements were critically evaluated. Various nanoplatforms, including metallic, polymeric, lipid-based, and carbon-based nanoparticles, have demonstrated significant potential in overcoming conventional resistance mechanisms through targeted drug delivery, membrane disruption, reactive oxygen species generation, and controlled drug release. Additionally, nanotechnology enhances antibiotic stability, improves intracellular drug accumulation, and facilitates combination therapies. Despite promising preclinical outcomes, challenges related to toxicity, large-scale manufacturing, regulatory approval, and long-term safety remain barriers to clinical translation. Nanotechnology offers a transformative strategy to address antimicrobial resistance by improving therapeutic efficacy and minimizing resistance development. Continued interdisciplinary research, standardized safety evaluations, and well-designed clinical studies are essential to accelerate the successful clinical implementation of nano-enabled antimicrobial therapies. Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance; Nanomedicine; Nanoparticle-based drug delivery; Biofilm inhibition; Precision antimicrobial therapy.