Browsing by Author "Venkateswaran, Meenakshi R."

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Citation Count: 0
Bioinspired Nanomaterials to Combat Microbial Biofilm and Pathogen Challenges: A Review
(Amer Chemical Soc, 2024) Zarepour, Atefeh; Venkateswaran, Meenakshi R.; Khosravi, Arezoo; Iravani, Siavash; Zarrabi, Ali
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant biofilms poses a significant challenge in healthcare, as these complex microbial communities demonstrate an increased resistance to conventional treatment methods. Traditional antibiotics often fail against biofilms, resulting in persistent infections and treatment failures. To address this urgent issue, innovative strategies such as bioinspired nanomaterials, antimicrobial peptides, quorum sensing inhibitors, and combination therapies show promise in disrupting biofilm structures, enhancing antimicrobial activity, and overcoming resistance mechanisms. Bioinspired nanomaterials have emerged as a pivotal approach for tackling the challenges presented by biofilms and microbial pathogens across various sectors, including healthcare, industry, and environmental protection. Their advantages include enhanced biocompatibility, targeted delivery, and improved efficacy against biofilm formation and microbial threats. Recent advancements highlight the potential of innovative solutions, such as antimicrobial nanoparticles, smart nanocarriers, surface modifications, and nanozymes, in combating biofilm-related issues. Despite significant progress in bioinspired nanomaterial research, challenges remain. The intricate interactions within biofilms and the evolving nature of microbial pathogens necessitate multidisciplinary approaches. Furthermore, translating laboratory findings into practical applications faces obstacles related to scalability, stability, and regulatory compliance. Future advancements in bioinspired nanomaterials are expected to focus on multifunctional nanoparticles that disrupt biofilms, advanced surface modifications for better interaction, smart nanocarriers for targeted delivery, and innovative nanozymes to dismantle biofilm structures. This review focuses on the development and application of bioinspired nanoparticles to address microbial biofilm and pathogen challenges. It emphasizes the roles of antimicrobial nanoparticles, surface modifications, smart nanocarriers, and nanozymes in enhancing the efficacy and targeting capabilities. Additionally, the review explores the potential of bioinspired nanomaterials in formulating biofilm management practices, providing insights into the advantages, limitations, and future perspectives of these innovative approaches.
Citation Count: 0
Self-healing materials in biomedicine and the circular economy
(Royal Soc Chemistry, 2024) Venkateswaran, Meenakshi R.; Khosravı, Arezoo; Zarepour, Atefeh; Iravani, Siavash; Zarrabi, Ali; Genetik ve Biyomühendislik / Genetic and Bio-Engineering
Self-healing (bio)materials represent a cornerstone in the transition towards a circular economy in healthcare. These materials possess the remarkable ability to autonomously repair damage, thereby extending the lifespan of medical devices, implants, sensors, wound dressings, and drug delivery systems. By extending the lifespan of biomedical products, they can significantly reduce waste generation and minimize the environmental impact associated with frequent replacement. In addition, the integration of self-healing properties into drug delivery systems can enhance their efficacy and reduce the need for frequent administration, resulting in a more sustainable healthcare system. Notably, self-healing polymers and hydrogels have the potential to improve the durability and lifespan of wound dressings, providing extended protection and support throughout the healing process. The development and implementation of self-healing biomaterials signify a shift towards a more environmentally conscious and resource-efficient healthcare sector. By adopting a circular approach, healthcare facilities can optimize the use of resources throughout the product lifecycle. This includes designing medical devices with self-healing capabilities, implementing efficient recycling systems, and promoting the development of new materials from recycled sources. Such an approach not only reduces the environmental footprint of the healthcare sector but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient supply chain. The adoption of self-healing (bio)materials offers numerous benefits for the healthcare industry. These materials not only can reduce the environmental impact of medical practices by extending the lifecycle of products but also enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes. The integration of self-healing materials in the healthcare industry holds promise for supporting a more circular economy by extending the product lifespan, reducing waste generation, and fostering sustainable practices in medical settings. However, additional explorations are warranted to optimize the performance and stability of self-healing (bio)materials, ensuring their long-term effectiveness. One of the primary challenges in the adoption of self-healing materials is the cost associated with their production. Notably, the exploration of specific self-healing mechanisms will be crucial in expanding their applications. This review examines the intersection of self-healing materials, biomedicine, and the circular economy, focusing on the challenges, advantages, and future perspectives associated with their implementation. This review examines the intersection of self-healing materials, biomedicine, and the circular economy, focusing on the challenges, advantages, and future perspectives associated with their implementation.