| Developments in nanotechnology have been responsible for generating a unique science called nanomedicine. [1] There have been many innovations in this field such as nanotubes and nanoparticles. These particles are commonly utilized for pharmaceutical purposes. [2] Silver nanoparticles, one of the common manufactured goods of nanomedicine, have shown remarkable antibacterial, antiviral and fungicidal properties. [3-5] Moreover, cathelicidins, a native immune defense system, exist on the epithelial tissue and have been shown to possess bactericidal effects. [6]
Distinguishing the microorganisms responsible for certain ophthalmic complications—specifically cornea and contact lens infections—and suggesting novel and developed methods for managing and preventing them still remain as a vital requisite. [7] For instance, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common microorganism of the skin and soft tissue, causes different clinical complications in ophthalmology. This microorganism has been shown to be a susceptible target of the nanosilver particles and the cathelicidins peptides. [8, 9]
Considering the facts above, it would be logical to suggest using the silver nanoparticles and the named peptides in combination through pharmaceutical capsules, and novel polymeric drug formulations, etc., as multi-pharmaceutical formulations to obtain bactericidal, fungicidal and antiviral properties, for eye and contact lens infections such as keratitis, etc., and will increase absorption and bioavailability and the antimicrobial effects of the particles and the peptides. Further studies, in vitro and in vivo, should be conducted to arrive at a more precise and detailed method for treatment. Additional biochemical experimentation is also needed to arrive at the exact mechanisms of action and to optimize the antimicrobial solution of the nanosilver and cathelicidins. |