Stimuli‐Responsive Release of Antimicrobials Using Hybrid Inorganic Nanoparticle‐Associated Drug‐Delivery Systems

Abstract Recently, the combination of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) of Au, Ag, Fe 2 O 3 , and Fe 3 O 4 with traditional soft matter drug‐delivery systems has emerged as a promising strategy to achieve site‐specific and controlled release of antimicrobial agents. By harnessing the plasmonic and magnetic properties of inorganic NPs, the disruption of antibiotic‐loaded liposomes, polymersomes, and hydrogels can be remotely triggered by mechanisms such as photo‐ and magneto‐thermal effects, microbubble cavitation, magnetic positioning, and pH‐changes, hence offering significant advantages in improving antibacterial efficacy, reducing side effects, and in overcoming antimicrobial resistance. This review highlights the latest development of stimuli‐responsive antibiotic delivery systems incorporating inorganic NPs. The methods employed for preparation of hybrid inorganic NP‐associated drug‐delivery systems and the effects this has upon the system are discussed. Finally, a detailed exposition of the NP‐mediated triggering mechanisms is provided and pertinent examples of their use in antimicrobial applications are presented.