Evaluation of Metal Ion-Releasing Glass Particles to Enhance Antibiotic Efficacy Against Cystic Fibrosis Infection

Abstract

In cystic fibrosis (CF), thickened airway mucus impairs mucociliary clearance, leading to chronic bacterial infections that cause lung damage and respiratory failure--the leading causes of mortality in CF patients. Although antibiotics are the primary treatment, incomplete bacterial eradication can promote antibiotic resistance. This project investigates whether combining conventional antibiotics with antibacterial metal ions delivered via borate bioactive glass can improve treatment efficacy. An in vitro airway infection model was developed to mimic the CF lung microenvironment using bronchial epithelial cells, a mucus-like hydrogel, and bacteria deposited via an aqueous two-phase system. Bioactive glass formulations demonstrated additive and synergistic antibacterial effects against common CF bacteria when used with antibiotics, without harming epithelial cell viability. These findings suggest that antibiotic-glass combinations may enhance bacterial clearance in CF airway infections and reduce the risk of resistance development, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for CF patients and others vulnerable to persistent lung infections.