Exploring the potential of naturally occurring antimicrobials for managing orthopedic-device-related infections.
Baixing Chen, T Fintan Moriarty, Hans Steenackers, Georges F Vles, Jolien Onsea, Thijs Vackier, Isabel Spriet, Rob Lavigne, R Geoff Richards, Willem-Jan Metsemakers
Author Information
Baixing Chen: Department of Trauma Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
T Fintan Moriarty: AO Research Institute Davos, Davos, Switzerland.
Hans Steenackers: Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Georges F Vles: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Jolien Onsea: Department of Trauma Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Thijs Vackier: Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Isabel Spriet: Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Rob Lavigne: Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
R Geoff Richards: AO Research Institute Davos, Davos, Switzerland.
Willem-Jan Metsemakers: Department of Trauma Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Orthopedic-device-related infections (ODRIs) are challenging clinical complications that are often exacerbated by antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. This review explores the efficacy of naturally occurring antimicrobials - including agents sourced from bacteria, fungi, viruses, animals, plants and minerals - against pathogens common in ODRIs. The limitations of traditional antibiotic agents are presented, and innovative naturally occurring antimicrobials, such as bacteriophage therapy and antimicrobial peptides, are evaluated with respect to their interaction with conventional antibiotics and antibiofilm efficacy. The integration of these natural agents into clinical practice could revolutionize ODRI treatment strategies, offering effective alternatives to conventional antibiotics and mitigating resistance development. However, the translation of these compounds from research into the clinic may require the substantial investment of intellectual and financial resources.
References
J Control Release. 2023 Dec;364:159-173
[PMID: 37866403]
