Gram-negative bacterial infections are characterized by the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a key outer membrane component that triggers a robust host immune response via TLR4 signaling. In this study, three series of dual-target (LpxC/PD-L1) inhibitors were rationally designed via a structural splicing approach, synthesized, and evaluated for their in vitro biological activities. Among them, compound 12d displayed potent antibacterial activity and significant dual-target (LpxC/PD-L1) inhibitory efficacy. To improve its bioavailability and targeting capability, the nanocomposite (NC-12d) was further constructed to sense the infection microenvironment. Subsequent in vivo evaluation confirmed the dual therapeutic functions of these agents: effective bacterial suppression and immune activation, which collectively accelerated host recovery from drug-resistant bacterial infection. In summary, this study not only broadens the scope of antibacterial drug development but also offers a drug delivery pathway for the treatment of bacterial infections.
Zhang et al. (2026) studied this question.