In recent years, bacterial virulence and the associated biofilm infections have emerged as a serious global health concern. Biofilms are three-dimensional bacterial structures with high resistance to antibiotics and are responsible for 65–80% of all bacterial infections, often linked to chronic and difficult-to-treat conditions. Among the main causes of such infections are multi-resistant pathogens. This project is focused on the development of innovative anti-virulence strategies based on the combined application of nanomaterials and natural plant metabolites. The study aims to identify and apply encapsulated plant extracts and fractions effective in: inhibiting biofilm formation, targeting quorum sensing mechanisms, affecting bacterial virulence traits, and modulating innate inflammatory mechanisms. As a result of the synergistic action between the applied synthetic and natural agents, the project aims to achieve effectiveness in overcoming antibiotic resistance.

The focus is placed on introducing an innovative approach for encapsulating plant phytochemicals (phenols, alkaloids, terpenes, etc.) into polymeric nanoparticles to enhance their biotolerance, specificity, and efficacy. Thanks to their small size and unique physicochemical properties, polymeric nanomaterials will allow for precise penetration into bacterial cells, with the expected disruption of vital intracellular processes. Methodologically, the research will include data on: effective antibacterial and anti-biofilm doses; synergistic effects between polymeric nanomaterials and plant compounds; elucidation of structural changes in biofilms and bacterial cell morphology; cytotoxicity on human cell lines; effects on the inflammasome and innate immune signaling pathways; biotolerance and therapeutic potential. Depending on the observed activity, some of the tested agents may be proposed for clinical and biomedical use. The multidisciplinary approach embedded in this project aims to lay the foundation for a new generation of anti-virulence agents and therapeutic strategies targeting the control and elimination of infectious biofilms, with potential application in medicine as well as in other high-risk sectors.