Antibacterial and Anti-Influenza Activities of <i>N</i>-Heterocyclic Carbene–Gold Complexes

Background/Objectives: Infectious diseases represent a serious threat due to rising antimicrobial resistance, particularly among multidrug-resistant bacteria and influenza viruses. Metal-based complexes, such as <i>N</i>-heterocyclic carbene–gold (NHC–gold) complexes, show promising ther...

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Main Authors: Michele Pellegrino, Paola Checconi, Jessica Ceramella, Carla Prezioso, Dolores Limongi, Maria Marra, Annaluisa Mariconda, Alessia Catalano, Marta De Angelis, Lucia Nencioni, Maria Stefania Sinicropi, Pasquale Longo, Stefano Aquaro
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2024-12-01
Series:Pharmaceuticals
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/17/12/1680
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Summary:Background/Objectives: Infectious diseases represent a serious threat due to rising antimicrobial resistance, particularly among multidrug-resistant bacteria and influenza viruses. Metal-based complexes, such as <i>N</i>-heterocyclic carbene–gold (NHC–gold) complexes, show promising therapeutic potential due to their ability to inhibit various pathogens. Methods: Eight NHC–gold complexes were synthesized and tested for antibacterial activity against <i>Escherichia coli</i>, <i>Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus</i>, and for anti-influenza activity in lung and bronchial epithelial cells infected with influenza virus A/H1N1. Antibacterial activity was assessed through the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), while the viral load was quantified using qRT-PCR. Results: Complexes 3, 4, and 6 showed significant antibacterial activity at concentrations of 10–20 µg/mL. Additionally, these complexes significantly reduced viral load, with complexes 3 and 4 markedly inhibiting replication. Conclusions: These findings support the potential use of NHC–gold complexes in combined antimicrobial and antiviral therapies, representing an attractive option for fighting resistant infections.
ISSN:1424-8247