Natural inspired antibacterial biomaterials designed to target the Staphylococcus aureus pathogen

In the context of the WHO's list of priority pathogens and the growing concern over antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the development of antibacterial biomaterials presents a promising avenue for combating drug-resistant bacteria. Antibacterial biomaterials can be designed specifically to target the pathogens listed in the ESKAPE acronym, such as Staphylococcus aureus. There is a huge potential for natural extract-based biomaterials (such as chitosan, starch, and alginate) to combat infections caused by drug-resistant strains of S. aureus by leveraging the antimicrobial properties of medicinal plant-derived compounds (e.g. essential oils, phenolic-rich extracts from herbs). Incorporating these extracts into biomaterials offers innovative strategies for developing effective antimicrobial formulations for medical and healthcare applications. Nanocomposite materials composed of biodegradable polymers and antimicrobial nanoparticles were functionalized with natural extracts to target S. aureus infections. Electrospun nanofibers composed of biocompatible polymers were loaded with antimicrobial plant extracts. Surfaces of medical devices, implants, or catheters can be coated with antibacterial coatings containing natural extracts to prevent colonization and biofilm formation by S. aureus. Hydrocolloid-based dressings or cryotropic gels, commonly known as cryogels, containing antimicrobial plant extracts have been developed for wound care applications. Nanocomposites are utilized for various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering scaffolds, wound dressings, and implant coatings, to prevent and treat S. aureus infections. Consideration is given also to the sustainability and environmental impact of antibacterial biomaterials. Sustainable sourcing of raw materials, eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and biodegradable materials are minimizing the environmental footprint associated with their production and disposal.