Underpinning disease management with bacteriophage and nanotechnology applications

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the limitations of conventional therapies have necessitated innovative approaches to disease management. This study explores the synergistic potential of bacteriophage therapy and nanotechnology in addressing infectious diseases, focussing on their applications in targeted drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapeutic interventions. Bacteriophages, viruses that specifically infect bacteria, offer a promising alternative to antibiotics by selectively targeting pathogenic bacteria while sparing the host microbiome. When combined with nanotechnology, their efficacy is significantly enhanced through improved delivery mechanisms, increased stability, and precise targeting. This research highlights the development of bacteriophage–nanoparticle (NP) conjugates, such as phage-loaded polymer NPs and gold-NP-based phage systems, for the treatment of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Additionally, nanotechnology enables the use of bacteriophages as diagnostic tools by integrating them with quantum dots and carbon nanodots for sensitive detection of bacterial pathogens. The study also examines the role of nanotechnology in overcoming challenges associated with bacteriophage therapy, such as limited host range and rapid clearance by the immune system, through surface modifications and encapsulation techniques. By underpinning disease management with these advanced applications, this research demonstrates a transformative approach to combating infectious diseases, offering a pathway towards sustainable and effective therapeutic strategies in the face of growing global health challenges.