Vancomycin-Functionalized Nanodelivery Systems for Antibacterial Tissue Engineering Scaffolds

Abstract

Biomaterial-associated infections, particularly those involving methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, present a significant challenge in tissue engineering, often leading to implant failure. This review examines the strategic development of vancomycin (VAN)-loaded nanoplatforms as an advanced modality to augment antibacterial efficacy within tissue engineering scaffolds. Conventional antibiotic delivery methods are frequently limited by suboptimal drug release kinetics, systemic toxicity, and inadequate penetration of bacterial biofilms. Nanotechnology-based approaches, including polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and nanofibers, offer a sophisticated solution by enabling targeted, localized, and sustained release of VAN directly at the implantation site. These systems significantly enhance VAN's bioavailability, reduce requisite dosages, thereby mitigating cytotoxic effects on progenitor cells, and effectively disrupt biofilm matrices. The integration of these nanocarriers into biomaterial matrices, such as hydrogels and electrospun scaffolds, creates a multifunctional environment that concurrently supports tissue regeneration and provides robust prophylactic and therapeutic antimicrobial action.