An Nigerian born American-based researcher, Dr. Falodun Bidemi Olumide has recorded breakthroughs in developing Nanoparticles which will be used to fight against bacteria and viruses in human bodies.
Nanoparticles, due to their unique size and properties, have emerged as powerful tools in combating bacterial and viral infections. Their significance in medical applications, particularly in killing bacteria and viruses within the human body, lies in their ability to enhance therapeutic efficacy and overcome limitations of traditional treatments. Here’s a detailed look at their roles and mechanisms.
In an exclusive interview with Nigerian Tribune, Olumide explained that Nanoparticles like silver, copper, and zinc oxide exhibit inherent antimicrobial properties. He said their small size and large surface area enhance their ability to interact with microbial cells.
“Nanoparticles can damage bacterial cell membranes, leading to cell leakage and death. Silver nanoparticles, for example, can adhere to bacterial membranes and disrupt their integrity. Certain nanoparticles can produce Reactive Oxygen Species upon exposure to light or in biological environments. These ROS cause oxidative stress, damaging bacterial DNA, proteins, and lipids, ultimately killing the bacteria.
“Nanoparticles can be engineered to deliver antibiotics directly to bacterial cells, enhancing the effectiveness of treatment while reducing side effects. By attaching specific ligands or antibodies to nanoparticles, they can selectively bind to bacterial cells, ensuring that the antimicrobial agents are delivered precisely where needed.
“Also, Nanoparticles can penetrate bacterial biofilms, which are typically resistant to conventional antibiotics, thereby improving the eradication of infections that are otherwise difficult to treat”, he explained.
Nanoparticles can also play a significant role in combating viral infections through various mechanisms. It can bind to viral particles, neutralizing them and preventing them from entering host cells.
“For instance, gold nanoparticles can be designed to interact with viral surface proteins, blocking the virus’s ability to infect cells. Secondly, Inhibition of Viral Replication due to some nanoparticles which interfere with viral replication processes. They can disrupt viral enzyme functions or inhibit the synthesis of viral proteins, reducing the virus’s ability to replicate and spread.
“Like bacterial infections, nanoparticles can be used to deliver antiviral drugs more effectively by improving drug stability. Nanoparticles can encapsulate antiviral drugs, protecting them from degradation and improving their stability. Nanoparticles can facilitate the delivery of antiviral drugs into target cells, increasing the concentration of the drug at the site of infection and enhancing therapeutic efficacy”, Olumide further explained.
Speaking on the advantages of this new finding, the Researcher said Nanoparticles can help address the growing problem of drug resistance by providing alternative mechanisms of action. Their ability to target bacteria and viruses differently than traditional antibiotics and antivirals can reduce the likelihood of resistance development.
“Because nanoparticles can be designed to target specific pathogens, they often result in fewer side effects compared to conventional treatments that may affect healthy cells as well. This targeted approach minimizes collateral damage and improves patient safety.
‘Nanoparticles can enhance the efficacy of treatments by improving drug solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Their ability to deliver therapeutic agents precisely to the site of infection ensures that higher concentrations of the drug reach the pathogen, leading to more effective treatment outcomes.
On the current and future applications, Olumide explained that Nanoparticle-based therapies are being explored in clinical settings for a range of infections. For example, silver nanoparticles are used in wound dressings to prevent bacterial infections, and research is ongoing into their potential for treating systemic infections”.
He added that researchers are actively investigating new types of nanoparticles and innovative methods for their application. This according to him includes exploring combinations of nanoparticles with other therapeutic modalities, such as immunotherapy or gene editing, to further enhance their effectiveness in treating infections.