A Method for Targeting Nanoparticles to Bacterial Biofilm Infections using Bacterial Surface Proteins
Description:
Background
Biofilm‑related infections are associated with high mortality and morbidity, combined with increased hospital stays and overall treatment costs. Traditional antibiotics play an essential role in controlling biofilms; however, they are becoming less effective due to the emergence of drug‑resistant bacterial strains. The need to treat biofilms on medical implants is particularly acute, and one persistent challenge is selectively directing nanoparticles to the biofilm site. Nanoparticles provide an effective strategy for delivering therapies to tumors and infection sites. However, developing a strategy to target the nanoparticles to a specific tissue or cell type is challenging, because the nanoparticles must recognize the target at the molecular site. We aim to solve this problem for biofilm infections, making it easier to use nanoparticles to deliver payloads to bacterial biofilms.
Technology Overview
Researchers at Mississippi State University have developed a simple and efficient strategy to direct nanoparticles to bacterial biofilms, after which photothermal therapy can be used to selectively kill bacteria without, or in combination with, traditional antibiotics. The nanoparticles are engineered with low protein binding, specific biofilm targeting, and efficient photothermal conversion. Targeting is attained using a bacterial cell‑wall binding protein from Staphylococcus epidermidis. This directs nanoparticles to S. epidermidis biofilms based on an affinity for teichoic acid. Essentially the bacterial proteins themselves are used to target nanoparticles to the biofilm site.
Benefits
The strategies for targeting nanoparticles to biofilms so far have involved basic chemical features such as pH, or they have required local application. Our innovation is to engineer a new protein that simultaneously binds the nanoparticles and bacterial biofilms.
Applications
This method has potential applications in human health with a focus on materials, medical devices, military or defense, nanotechnology and nanoscience.
Seeking
- Development partner
- Commercial partner
- Licensing
- Seeking investment
IP Status