TAT-modified self-assembled cationic peptide nanoparticles as an efficient antibacterial agent

In this study, a new blood-brain barrier permeable cationic peptide modified with TAT has been designed. Molecular dynamics simulation and scanning electron microscope indicated the peptide can self-assemble to core-shell nanoparticles with TAT molecules on the surface. These nanoparticles were potent against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including drug-resistant bacteria. Their antibacterial mechanism by directly constructing bacterial wall/membrane reduces the possibility for developing drug resistance. In vivo anti-infective experiments showed these nanoparticles not only penetrated the blood brain barrier but also inhibited bacterial growth in infected brains of rats. Taken together, these nanoparticles can be a promising and efficient antibacterial agent against bacterial infections.143