Affiliation:
1. Biomaterials Research Center School of Biomedical Engineering Southern Medical University Guangzhou China
2. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy University of Arizona Tucson Arizona USA
3. University of Arizona Cancer Center University of Arizona Tucson Arizona USA
4. BIO5 Institute University of Arizona Tucson Arizona USA
Abstract
AbstractWith the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases caused by drug‐resistant bacteria, there is an urgent need to develop innovative therapies alternative to antibiotics. Among these alternatives, the aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) photosensitizers (PSs) stand out with their integrated imaging and therapeutic functionalities, allowing for early monitoring and image‐guided ablation of bacteria. AIE fluorescent probes with unique optical properties excel in selective bacterial imaging. Furthermore, AIE‐enabled reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated antibacterial photodynamic therapy can operate on multiple targets to oxidize bacteria. Also, as they are able to specifically target bacteria, AIE PSs can ameliorate the limitations of the small‐scale action of ROS. This review methodically discusses the different strategies that can be employed using AIE PSs for targeting bacteria, including sheltered bacteria. The challenges and future opportunities of using AIE PSs in this emerging field are also briefly discussed.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
National Key Research and Development Program of China