Figure 5.

Schematic representation of MSNs with targeting capability to both bacteria and biofilm. Because of the negative charges in the surface of the bacteria wall, one of the strategies to target bacteria is to functionalize the surface with positive charges. In this sense, several small molecules and biomacromolecules have been used: amines, polycationic dendrimers, and cationic polyaminoacid (among others). On the other hand, the biofilm is formed by a protective external layer of mucopolysaccharide, which has high affinity properties. In this case, this glycoconjugate has been used successfully as targeting agent.