Biofilm

Biofilm-associated lung infections, particularly those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis patients, represent a major therapeutic challenge. The extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, metabolic heterogeneity, and microenvironmental gradients within biofilms drastically reduce antibiotic penetration and efficacy. Nanoparticle (NP)-based therapeutics offer unique advantages, such as enhanced biofilm penetration, controlled release, and localized delivery via inhalation. This review summarizes the latest developments in the design, synthesis, and characterization of nanoparticles intended for treating biofilm-associated pulmonary infections. The discussion emphasizes materials selection, fabrication routes, and physicochemical parameters influencing antibiofilm performance, with critical perspectives on translational challenges, safety, and future directions.

Rhinosinusitis (RS), chiefly viral in origin, is increasingly widespread, and puts heavy financial burdens on society. Treatments range from home remedies and alpha-adrenergic agonistic decongestants to antibiotics, corticosteroids, and even surgery. Much discomfort, pain, individual and societal cost, could be avoided through efficient, judicious and cost-effective treatments. In absence of a specific and effective treatment for RS, saline water nasal irrigation is considered safe and beneficial. In a simple scientific approach to find a novel remedy that would target not only the symptoms but also the causes of RS, a tannin-rich hypertonic solution for nasal spray was formulated and evaluated for efficacy against traditional saline. Tannin-rich plant extracts (procyanidins or PCDs) showing anti-bacterial, influenza virus-neutralizing activity were identified in vitro, and incorporated into a hypertonic glycerol solution. A pilot randomized, single blind trial was conducted on 113 RS patients not undergoing any other treatment: 51 patients received a 3% NaCl solution as placebo saline spray (PSS), while 62 patients received the PCD-containing, hypertonic solution. 3-4 sprays of the products were applied twice daily for 21 days (maximum) or until recovery. Rhinosinusitis symptom severity scores were recorded. Although PSS proved beneficial, the PCD-glycerol solution produced a much greater, statistically significant improvement with regard to speed and degree of symptom reduction, leading to a lesser need for antibiotherapy. Results show that the use of a non-irritant hypertonic solution containing specific tannins represents a new, efficient, safe and cost effective approach to treat RS.