Treatment of Deep Skin Infection by PCL-SPIONS-Erythromycin, Enhancing Antibiotic Efficacy: an in vitro and in vivo study

Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), as a pioneering class of synthetic aliphatic polyesters, have garnered as highly promising materials in biomedicine, owing to their biocompatibility, degradability, and adaptability. This study investigates the potential of Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) encapsulated Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONS) loaded with erythromycin as a novel therapeutic approach for enhancing antibiotic efficacy against deep-seated infections. Deep-seated infections pose a significant challenge in contemporary healthcare, necessitating innovative strategies to improve the efficacy of antibiotic treatments. The APTMS-modified SPIONs facilitated superior drug uptake and retention within bacterial cells, resulting in enhanced antibacterial efficacy against several bacterial strains as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas sp. and Shigella sonnei. Cytotoxicity assessments established the biocompatibility of PCL-APTMS-SPION complexes, endorsing their suitability for potential clinical applications. In vitro experiments were conducted to assess the antimicrobial activity of PCL-SPIONS-Erythromycin against a panel of clinically relevant bacterial Staphylococcus aureus, employing standard susceptibility testing methods. Results demonstrated a substantial improvement in the antibacterial efficacy of erythromycin when delivered through the PCL-SPIONS carrier, suggesting enhanced drug penetration and sustained release. The PCL-SPIONS-Erythromycin treatment group exhibited a significant reduction in bacterial load compared to other groups, indicating superior therapeutic outcomes. The study also investigated the biocompatibility and safety profile of PCL-SPIONS-Erythromycin through histological examination of vital organs, blood cells, and monitoring of potential adverse effects.