In silico and in vivo methods for designing antibiofilm agents against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus

A biofilm is responsible for 80% of all microbial infections, and the misuse and overuse of antibiotics has accelerated antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which has emerged as a major threat to mankind. As a result, antibacterial therapies are often ineffective in eradicating biofilms, and therefore, it is imperative to develop innovative antibiofilm agents with new targets and mechanisms of action. Development of several potential anti-biofilm drug candidates is ongoing, and it is essential to understand the existing methods employed to develop antibiofilm agents such as in silico and In vivo methods. In silico methods are helpful in designing the lead molecules emphasizing the lead's ability to interact with the molecular target. On the other hand, in vivo methods will allow us to evaluate the effect of the lead molecule for inhibiting biofilms in animal models. Since there is an inevitability to develop antibiofilm agents due to the AMR concerns against various pathogens especially bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and staphylococcus aureus, it is important to consider current in silico and in vivo methods to systematically improve these agents. Here, we have discussed the molecular docking methods and animal models used extensively against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Furthermore, we discussed possible challenges and future prospects for antibiofilm agent development against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus.