Antibacterial activities of zinc oxide nanoparticles against Escherichia coli O157:H7

Components from wheat roots modify the bioactivity of ZnO and CuO nanoparticles in a soil bacterium

ZnO and CuO nanoparticles (NPs) have widespread commercial uses and their impact on agricultural systems is unresolved. This study examined whether the metabolites washed from wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) roots modulated the metabolic response to the NPs of a biosensor generated in the root colonizer, Pseudomonas putida KT2440. The root wash components boosted light output of the biosensor consistent with their catabolism. Dose-dependent and rapid inhibition of cell metabolism occurred with both ZnO and CuO NPs in water suspensions but high light output was maintained in root wash. Root wash also protected biosensor output in challenges with Zn ions. However the root wash components did not protect culturability or biosensor light output upon exposure to Cu ions. Imaging by atomic force microscopy suggested that root wash materials coated the NPs. We deduced that the response of a microbe to these metal oxide NPs could be negated by components released from roots.

Influence of aqueous media on the ROS-mediated toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles toward green fluorescent protein-expressing Escherichia coli under UV-365 irradiation

The aqueous media could affect the physicochemical properties (e.g., surface charge, morphology, and aggregation) of ZnO nanoparticles (nZnO), leading to their different environmental impacts. In this study, the toxicity of nZnO toward the green fluorescent protein-expressing Escherichia coli cells under UV-365 light irradiaiton in various media was assessed, including deionized (DI) water, 0.85% NaCl, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), minimal Davis medium (MD), and Luria-Bertani medium (LB). The toxicity of nZnO was assessed by the conventional plate count method and the fluorescence intensity method, which consistently demonstrated that the nZnO toxicity was dependent on the medium components that varied the potency of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In DI, NaCl, PBS, and MD medium, nZnO generated three types of ROS (O2(•-), •OH, and (1)O2), whereas in LB medium, nZnO generated O2(•-) and (1)O2. The total concentrations of ROS generated by nZnO in DI, NaCl, PBS, MD, and LB were 265.5 ± 15.9, 153.6 ± 8.6, 144.3 ± 6.9, 123.0 ± 6.0, and 115.6 ± 4.5 μM, respectively. Furthermore, a linear correlation was established between the total concentrations of three types of ROS generated by nZnO and their bacterial mortality rate (R(2) = 0.92) in various media. Since the released Zn(2+) from nZnO under UV irradiation only accounted for less than 10% of the total Zn in all media, the ionic forms of zinc did not significantly contribute to the overall toxicity. This work aims at providing further insight into the medium type influences on the ROS production and the toxicity of nZnO toward the E. coli cells.

Metalloproteins and phytochelatin synthase may confer protection against zinc oxide nanoparticle induced toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are used in large quantities by the cosmetic, food and textile industries. Here we exposed Caenorhabditis elegans wild-type and a metal sensitive triple knockout mutant (mtl-1;mtl-2;pcs-1) to ZnONPs (0-50mg/L) to study strain and exposure specific effects on transcription, reactive oxygen species generation, the biomolecular phenotype (measured by Raman microspectroscopy) and key endpoints of the nematode life cycle (growth, reproduction and lifespan). A significant dissolution effect was observed, where dissolved ZnO constituted over 50% of total Zn within a two day exposure to the test medium, suggesting that the nominal exposure to pure ZnONPs represents in vivo, at best, a mixture exposure of ionic zinc and nanoparticles. Nevertheless, the analyses provided evidence that the metallothioneins (mtl-1 and mtl-2), the phytochelatin synthase (pcs-1) and an apoptotic marker (cep-1) were transcriptionally activated. In addition, the DCFH-DA assay provided in vitro evidence of the oxidative potential of ZnONPs in the metal exposure sensitive triple mutant. Raman spectroscopy highlighted that the biomolecular phenotype changes significantly in the mtl-1;mtl-2;pcs-1 triple knockout worm upon ZnONP exposure, suggesting that these metalloproteins are instrumental in the protection against cytotoxic damage. Finally, ZnONP exposure was shown to decrease growth and development, reproductive capacity and lifespan, effects which were amplified in the triple knockout. By combining diverse toxicological strategies, we identified that individuals (genotypes) housing mutations in key metalloproteins and phytochelatin synthase are more susceptible to ZnONP exposure, which underlines their importance to minimize ZnONP induced toxicity.

Robust ZnO nanoparticle embedded memory device using vancomycin conjugate and its biorecognition for electrical charging node

Conjugation of antibiotic vancomycin (VAN) on nanoparticles (NPs) has recently initiated novel works in the nanobiotechnology field. In this study, a bioelectronic structure using VAN conjugated zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs as charge storing elements on metal-pentacene-insulator-silicon (MPIS) device is demonstrated. Highly specific molecular recognition between the VAN and membrane protein unit mimicked from VAN-resistant bacteria is employed as the formation mechanism of self-assembly monolayers (SAMs) of ZnO NPs. The insulator surface is modified with the VAN cognate peptide of L-Ala-D-Glu-L-Lys-D-Ala-D-Ala by chemical activator coupling. Hysteretic behaviors in capacitance versus voltage (C-V) curves are obtained for the charged ZnO NPs exhibiting flatband voltage shifts, which demonstrate the charge storage on the VAN conjugated ZnO NPs. The potential perspective of this study will be a tangible progress of biomolecular electronics implemented by the interface between biomolecules and electronics.

Zinc oxide microrods and nanorods: different antibacterial activity and their mode of action against Gram-positive bacteria

ZnO micro and nanorods, produced through simple and inexpensive techniques, resulted to be strong antimicrobials against Gram-positive bacteria, in vitro as well as in vivo, by altering cell outer structures like membrane and exopolysaccharides.

Whiter, brighter, and more stable cellulose paper coated with antibacterial carboxymethyl starch stabilized ZnO nanoparticles

A coating of CMS-stabilized ZnO nanoparticles has been deposited on a cellulose paper by a layer-by-layer approach. The coated papers show higher brightness and whiteness compared with blank paper. They also show good antibacterial activity against MRSA and A. baumannii.

Antifouling properties of zinc oxide nanorod coatings

In laboratory experiments, the antifouling (AF) properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorod coatings were investigated using the marine bacterium Acinetobacter sp. AZ4C, larvae of the bryozoan Bugula neritina and the microalga Tetraselmis sp. ZnO nanorod coatings were fabricated on microscope glass substrata by a simple hydrothermal technique using two different molar concentrations (5 and 10 mM) of zinc precursors. These coatings were tested for 5 h under artificial sunlight (1060 W m(-2) or 530 W m(-2)) and in the dark (no irradiation). In the presence of light, both the ZnO nanorod coatings significantly reduced the density of Acinetobacter sp. AZ4C and Tetraselmis sp. in comparison to the control (microscope glass substratum without a ZnO coating). High mortality and low settlement of B. neritina larvae was observed on ZnO nanorod coatings subjected to light irradiation. In darkness, neither mortality nor enhanced settlement of larvae was observed. Larvae of B. neritina were not affected by Zn(2+) ions. The AF effect of the ZnO nanorod coatings was thus attributed to the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by photocatalysis. It was concluded that ZnO nanorod coatings effectively prevented marine micro and macrofouling in static conditions.

Nanoparticles and the control of oral infections

The potential of antimicrobial nanoparticles to control oral infections is reviewed. Such particles can be classified as having a size no greater than 100 nm and are produced using traditional or more novel techniques. Exploitation of the toxic properties of nanoparticles to bacteria, fungi and viruses, in particular metals and metal oxides, as well as their incorporation into polymeric materials have increased markedly over the past decade. The potential of nanoparticles to control the formation of biofilms within the oral cavity, as a function of their biocidal, anti-adhesive and delivery capabilities, is now receiving close attention. Latest insights into the application of nanoparticles within this field, including their use in photodynamic therapy, will be reviewed. Possible approaches to alter biocompatibility and desired function will also be covered.

Synthesis of water-dispersible zinc oxide quantum dots with antibacterial activity and low cytotoxicity for cell labeling

Typical photoluminescent semiconductor nanoparticles, called quantum dots (QDs), have potential applications in biological labeling. When used to label stem cells, QDs may impair the differentiation capacity of the stem cells. In this study, we synthesized zinc oxide (ZnO) QDs in methanol with an average size of ∼2 nm. We then employed two different types of polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules (SH-PEG-NH2 and NH2-PEG-NH2) to conjugate ZnO QDs and made them water-dispersible. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra indicated the attachment of PEG molecules on ZnO QDs. No obvious size alteration was observed for ZnO QDs after PEG conjugation. The water-dispersible ZnO QDs still retained the antibacterial activity and fluorescence intensity. The cytotoxicity evaluation revealed that ZnO QDs at higher concentrations decreased cell viability but were generally safe at 30 ppm or below. Cell lines of hepatocytes (HepG2), osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were successfully labeled by the water-dispersible ZnO QDs at 30 ppm. The ZnO QD-labeled MSCs maintained their stemness and differentiation capacity. Therefore, we conclude that the water-dispersible ZnO QDs developed in this study have antibacterial activity, low cytotoxicity, and proper labeling efficiency, and can be used to label a variety of cells including stem cells.

Effects of bio-Au nanoparticles on electrochemical activity of Shewanella oneidensis wild type and ΔomcA/mtrC mutant

Both Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 wild type and its mutant ΔomcA/mtrC are capable of transforming Au^III into Au nanoparticles (AuNPs). Cyclic voltammetry reveals a decrease in redox current after the wild type is exposed to Au^III but an increase in oxidation current for the mutant. The peak current of the wild type is much higher than that of the mutant before the exposure of Au^III, but lower than that of the mutant after the formation of AuNPs. This suggests that damage to the electron transfer chain in the mutant could be repaired by AuNPs to a certain extent. Spectroscopy and SDS-PAGE analysis indicate a decrease in cell protein content after the formation of AuNPs, which provides a convenient way to detect intracellular information on cells.

Microwave-assisted synthesis, characterization and antibacterial activity of Ag/ZnO nanoparticles supported bentonite clay

Composites of silver-zinc oxide nanoparticles supported on bentonite clay were synthesized by the microwave-assisted synthesis method for use as an antibacterial material. Silver nitrate was used as the precursor of silver nanoparticles while zinc oxide nanoparticles were commercially sourced. The composites were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and BET surface area measurements. XRD spectra showed peaks of silver confirming the formation of the silver and not of the silver nitrate or any other impurity of the metal. Meanwhile TEM confirmed the formation of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles on the clay layers, with particle sizes ranging from 9-30 nm and 15-70 nm, respectively. The antibacterial activities of the composites were evaluated against Gram negative Escherichia coli bacteria and Gram positive Enterococcus faecalis bacteria by the disc diffusion method. Whereas both composites of Ag-clay and ZnO-clay showed good antibacterial activity against bacteria, a better antibacterial activity was observed with Ag/ZnO-clay composite. The results therefore reveal that Ag/ZnO-clay composite is a promising bactericide that can be used for deactivating microbes in water.

Effect of zinc compounds on Fusarium verticillioides growth, hyphae alterations, conidia, and fumonisin production

BACKGROUND

Several strategies are used to eliminate toxigenic fungi that produce fumonisins in grains. Fusarium verticillioides can be controlled by the application of synthetic fungicides in the field or during storage. However, there may also be residuals, which may remain in the foods. Inorganic compounds such as zinc are cheap, stable and could present strong antifungal activity. Some Zn compounds can be utilized as dietary supplements and are authorized for the fortification of foods. Knowing the advantages and that low concentrations of Zn can have antimicrobial activity, our objective was to evaluate the effects of Zn compounds on the growth of F. verticillioides and the production of fumonisin and conidia. In addition, we aimed to verify that Zn compounds cause morphological alterations of the hyphae, mortality and production of reactive oxygen species.

RESULTS

Zn compounds efficiently reduced fungal growth and fumonisin production. Treatment using zinc perchlorate gave the best results. All treatments inhibited conidia production and caused morphological alterations of the hyphae. It was possible to observe cell death and production of reactive oxygen species.

CONCLUSION

Zn compounds have advantages compared to other antifungal compounds. In particular, they are non-toxic for the organism in appropriate amounts. They could be studied further as potential fungicides in agriculture.

Toxicity of Ag, CuO and ZnO nanoparticles to selected environmentally relevant test organisms and mammalian cells in vitro: a critical review

Nanoparticles (NPs) of copper oxide (CuO), zinc oxide (ZnO) and especially nanosilver are intentionally used to fight the undesirable growth of bacteria, fungi and algae. Release of these NPs from consumer and household products into waste streams and further into the environment may, however, pose threat to the 'non-target' organisms, such as natural microbes and aquatic organisms. This review summarizes the recent research on (eco)toxicity of silver (Ag), CuO and ZnO NPs. Organism-wise it focuses on key test species used for the analysis of ecotoxicological hazard. For comparison, the toxic effects of studied NPs toward mammalian cells in vitro were addressed. Altogether 317 L(E)C50 or minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) values were obtained for algae, crustaceans, fish, bacteria, yeast, nematodes, protozoa and mammalian cell lines. As a rule, crustaceans, algae and fish proved most sensitive to the studied NPs. The median L(E)C50 values of Ag NPs, CuO NPs and ZnO NPs (mg/L) were 0.01, 2.1 and 2.3 for crustaceans; 0.36, 2.8 and 0.08 for algae; and 1.36, 100 and 3.0 for fish, respectively. Surprisingly, the NPs were less toxic to bacteria than to aquatic organisms: the median MIC values for bacteria were 7.1, 200 and 500 mg/L for Ag, CuO and ZnO NPs, respectively. In comparison, the respective median L(E)C50 values for mammalian cells were 11.3, 25 and 43 mg/L. Thus, the toxic range of all the three metal-containing NPs to target- and non-target organisms overlaps, indicating that the leaching of biocidal NPs from consumer products should be addressed.

Cationic antimicrobial peptides and biogenic silver nanoparticles kill mycobacteria without eliciting DNA damage and cytotoxicity in mouse macrophages

With the emergence of multidrug-resistant mycobacterial strains, better therapeutic strategies are required for the successful treatment of the infection. Although antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are becoming one of the popular antibacterial agents, their antimycobacterial potential is not fully evaluated. In this study, we synthesized biogenic-silver nanoparticles using bacterial, fungal, and plant biomasses and analyzed their antibacterial activities in combination with AMPs against mycobacteria. Mycobacterium smegmatis was found to be more susceptible to AgNPs compared to M. marinum. We found that NK-2 showed enhanced killing effect with NP-1 and NP-2 biogenic nanoparticles at a 0.5-ppm concentration, whereas LLKKK-18 showed antibacterial activity only with NP-2 at 0.5-ppm dose against M. smegmatis. In case of M. marinum NK-2 did not show any additive activity with NP-1 and NP-2 and LLKKK-18 alone completely inhibited the bacterial growth. Both NP-1 and NP-2 also showed increased killing of M. smegmatis in combination with the antituberculosis drug rifampin. The sizes and shapes of the AgNPs were determined by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. AgNPs showed no cytotoxic or DNA damage effects on macrophages at the mycobactericidal dose, whereas treatment with higher doses of AgNPs caused toxicity and micronuclei formation in cytokinesis blocked cells. Macrophages actively endocytosed fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled AgNPs resulting in nitric oxide independent intracellular killing of M. smegmatis. Apoptosis and cell cycle studies showed that treatment with higher dose of AgNPs arrested macrophages at the G1-phase. In summary, our data suggest the combined effect of biogenic-AgNPs and antimicrobial peptides as a promising antimycobacterial template.

A critical study: assessment of the effect of silica particles from 15 to 500 nm on bacterial viability

The current opinion on the toxicity of nanomaterials converges on a size-dependent phenomenon showing increasing toxicity with decreasing particle sizes. We demonstrate that SiO2 particles have no or only a mild effect on the viability of five bacterial strains, independently from the particle size. A two-hour exposure to 20 mg L(-1) of 15, 50 and 500 nm sized SiO2 particles neither alters bacterial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels nor reduces the number of colony forming units (CFU). Additionally, we tested the effect of Al2O3-coated LUDOX-CL (ACS 20) with a primary particle size of 20 nm. In contrast, these particles caused a significant reduction of ATP levels and CFU. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that ACS 20 induced a pronounced agglomeration of the bacteria, which led to underestimated counts in regard of CFU. Bactericide effects as indicated by decreased ATP levels can be explained by bactericide additives that are present in the ACS 20 suspension.

Sensitive and specific discrimination of pathogenic and nonpathogenic Escherichia coli using Raman spectroscopy-a comparison of two multivariate analysis techniques

The determination of bacterial identity at the strain level is still a complex and time-consuming endeavor. In this study, visible wavelength spontaneous Raman spectroscopy has been used for the discrimination of four closely related Escherichia coli strains: pathogenic enterohemorrhagic E. coli O157:H7 and non-pathogenic E. coli C, E. coli Hfr K-12, and E. coli HF4714. Raman spectra from 600 to 2000 cm(-1) were analyzed with two multivariate chemometric techniques, principal component-discriminant function analysis and partial least squares-discriminant analysis, to determine optimal parameters for the discrimination of pathogenic E. coli from the non-pathogenic strains. Spectral preprocessing techniques such as smoothing with windows of various sizes and differentiation were investigated. The sensitivity and specificity of both techniques was in excess of 95%, determined by external testing of the chemometric models. This study suggests that spontaneous Raman spectroscopy with visible wavelength excitation is potentially useful for the rapid identification and classification of clinically-relevant bacteria at the strain level.

Ecotoxicity of manufactured ZnO nanoparticles--a review

This report presents an exhaustive literature review on the toxicity of manufactured ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) to ecological receptors across different taxa: bacteria, algae and plants, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates and vertebrates. Ecotoxicity studies on ZnO NPs are most abundant in bacteria, and are relatively lacking in other species. These studies suggest relative high acute toxicity of ZnO NPs (in the low mg/l levels) to environmental species, although this toxicity is highly dependent on test species, physico-chemical properties of the material, and test methods. Particle dissolution to ionic zinc and particle-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) represent the primary modes of action for ZnO NP toxicity across all species tested, and photo-induced toxicity associated with its photocatalytic property may be another important mechanism of toxicity under environmentally relevant UV radiation. Finally, current knowledge gaps within this area are briefly discussed and recommendations for future research are made.

The biological effects and possible modes of action of nanosilver

Novel physicochemical and biological properties have led to a versatile spectrum of applications for nanosized silver particles. Silver nanoparticles are applied primarily for their antimicrobial effects, and may variety of commercially available products have emerged. To better predict and prevent possible environmental impacts from silver nanoparticles that are derived from increasing production volumes and environmental release, more data on the biological effects are needed on appropriate model organisms. We examined the literature that addressed the adverse effects of silver nanoparticles on different levels of biological integration, including in vitro and in vivo test systems. Results of in vitro studies indicate a dose-dependent programmed cell death included by oxidative stress as main possible pathway of toxicity. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles may affect cellular enzymes by interference with free thiol groups and mimicry of endogenous ions. Similar mechanisms may apply for antibacterial effects produced by nonasilver. These effects are primary from the interference nanosilver has with bacterial cell membranes. Few in vivo studies have been performed to evaluated the toxic mode of action of nanosilver or to provide evidence for oxidative stress as an important mechanism of nanosilver toxicity. Organisms that are most acutely sensitive to nanosilver toxicity are the freshwater filter-freeding organisms. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated tha silver ions released from nanoparticle surface contribute to the toxicity, and, indeed, some findings indicated a unique nanoparticles effect. For an adequate evaluation of the environmental impact of nanosilver, greater emphasis should be placed on combining mechanistic investigations that are performed in vitro, with results obtained in in vivo test systems. Future in vivo test system studies should emphasize long-term exposure scenarios. Moreover, the dietary uptake of silver nanoparticles and the potential to bioaccumulate through the food web should be examined in detail.

Antibacterial Activity of Copper and CTAB Modified Clays against Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Antibacterial activity of modified kaolinite and bentonite with antibacterial agents againstPseudomonas aeruginosawas studied. These clays have been modified with only cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) and copper (Cu) and the combination of both. Characterization of the studied materials with X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyzer and Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) revealed the successful preparation of CTAB-clays, Cu-clays and CTAB-Cu-clays without distorting the structure of these clays. From the antibacterial assay of the studied materials by Inhibition Growth Study and Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) technique, CTAB-Cu-clays have been proven to have the highest antibacterial activity due to the synergistic effect of CTAB and Cu as antibacterial agents. It can be concluded that modification of clays with CTAB and Cu can become new alternative powerful antibacterial agent.

Comparative toxicity assessment of CeO2 and ZnO nanoparticles towards Sinorhizobium meliloti, a symbiotic alfalfa associated bacterium: use of advanced microscopic and spectroscopic techniques

Cerium oxide (CeO(2)) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) are extensively used in a variety of instruments and consumer goods. These NPs are of great concern because of potential toxicity towards human health and the environment. The present work aimed to assess the toxic effects of 10nm CeO(2) and ZnO NPs towards the nitrogen fixing bacterium Sinorhizobium meliloti. Toxicological parameters evaluated included UV/Vis measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration, disk diffusion tests, and dynamic growth. Ultra high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were utilized to determine the spatial distribution of NPs and macromolecule changes in bacterial cells, respectively. Results indicate that ZnO NPs were more toxic than CeO(2) NPs in terms of inhibition of dynamic growth and viable cells counts. STEM images revealed that CeO(2) and ZnO NPs were found on bacterial cell surfaces and ZnO NPs were internalized into the periplasmic space of the cells. FTIR spectra showed changes in protein and polysaccharide structures of extra cellular polymeric substances present in bacterial cell walls treated with both NPs. The growth data showed that CeO(2) NPs have a bacteriostatic effect, whereas ZnO NPs is bactericidal to S. meliloti. Overall, ZnO NPs were found to be more toxic than CeO(2) NPs.

Assessing the impact of copper and zinc oxide nanoparticles on soil: a field study

It is not known if the annual production of tonnes of industrial nanoparticles (NPs) has the potential to impact terrestrial microbial communities, which are so necessary for ecosystem functioning. Here, we have examined the consequences of adding zero valent copper and zinc oxide NPs to soil in pots that were then maintained under field conditions. The fate of these NPs, as well as changes in the microbial communities, was monitored over 162 days. Both NP types traveled through the soil matrix, albeit at differential rates, with Cu NPs retained in the soil matrix at a higher rate compared to ZnO NPs. Leaching of Cu and Zn ions from the parent NPs was also observed as a function of time. Analysis of microbial communities using culture-dependent and independent methods clearly indicated that Cu and ZnO NPs altered the microbial community structure. In particular, two orders of organisms found in rhizosphere, Flavobacteriales and Sphingomonadales, appeared to be particularly susceptible to the presence of NPs. Together, the migration of NPs through soil matrix and the ability of these potential pollutants to influence the composition of microbial community in this field study, cannot help but raise some environmental concerns.

Examination of nanoparticle inactivation of Campylobacter jejuni biofilms using infrared and Raman spectroscopies

AIMS

To investigate inactivation effect and mechanism of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) activity against Campylobacter jejuni biofilms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

ZnO NPs with concentrations of 0, 0·6, 1·2 and 6 mmol l(-1) were employed in antimicrobial tests against Camp. jejuni planktonic cells and biofilms. Campylobacter jejuni sessile cells in biofilms were more resistant to a low concentration of ZnO NPs when compared to planktonic cells. The ZnO NPs penetrated the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) without damage to the EPS and directly interacted with the sessile bacterial cells, as determined using infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Raman spectroscopy shows alterations in quinone structures and damage to nucleic acids following Camp. jejuni treatment with ZnO NPs. The mechanism of DNA damage is most likely due to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Spectroscopic-based partial least squares regression (PLSR) models could predict the number of surviving sessile cell numbers within a bacterial biofilm (≥log 4 CFU, root mean square error of estimation <0·36) from Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectral measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

ZnO NPs were found to have antimicrobial activity against Camp. jejuni biofilms. ZnO NPs penetrated the biofilm EPS within 1 h without damaging it and interacted directly with sessile cells in biofilms. Alterations in the DNA/RNA bases, which are owing to the generation of ROS, appear to result in Camp. jejuni cell death.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

ZnO NPs may offer a realistic strategy to eliminate Camp. jejuni biofilms in the environment.

Antimicrobial activity of nanoparticulate metal oxides against peri-implantitis pathogens

Dental plaque accumulation may result in peri-implantitis, an inflammatory process causing loss of supporting bone that may lead to dental implant failure. The antimicrobial activities of six metal and metal oxide nanoparticles and two of their composites against bacterial pathogens associated with peri-implantitis were examined under anaerobic conditions. The activities of nanoparticles of silver (Ag), cuprous oxide (Cu(2)O), cupric oxide (CuO), zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO(2)), tungsten oxide (WO(3)), Ag+CuO composite and Ag+ZnO composite were assessed by minimum inhibitory (bacteriostatic) concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) determination against Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Time-kill assays were carried out to examine the dynamics of the antimicrobial activity with ZnO nanoparticles. MIC and MBC values were in the range of <100 μg/mL to 2500 μg/mL and <100 μg/mL to >2500 μg/mL, respectively. The activity of the nanoparticles tested in descending order was Ag>Ag+CuO>Cu(2)O>CuO>Ag+ZnO>ZnO>TiO(2)>WO(3). Time-kill assays with ZnO demonstrated a significant decrease in growth of all species tested within 4h, reaching 100% within 2h for P. gingivalis and within 3h for F. nucleatum and P. intermedia. Coating titanium surfaces of dental and orthopaedic implants with antimicrobial nanoparticles should lead to an increased rate of implant success.

Novel microbial route to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles using Aeromonas hydrophila and their activity against pathogenic bacteria and fungi

In the present work, we describe a low-cost, unreported and simple procedure for biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using reproducible bacteria, Aeromonas hydrophila as eco-friendly reducing and capping agent. UV-vis spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, AFM, NC-AFM and FESEM with EDX analyses were performed to ascertain the formation and characterization of ZnO NPs. The synthesized ZnO NPs were characterized by a peak at 374 nm in the UV-vis spectrum. XRD confirmed the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles and AFM showed the morphology of the nanoparticle to be spherical, oval with an average size of 57.72 nm. Synthesized ZnO NPs showed the XRD peaks at 31.75°, 34.37°, 47.60°, 56.52°, 66.02° and 75.16° were identified as (100), (002), (101), (102), (110), (112) and (202) reflections, respectively. Rietveld analysis to the X-ray data indicated that ZnO NPs have hexagonal unit cell at crystalline level. The size and topological structure of the ZnO NPs was measured by NC-AFM. The morphological characterization of synthesized nanoparticles was analyzed by FESEM and chemical composition by EDX. The antibacterial and antifungal activity was ended with corresponding well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration. The maximum zone of inhibition was observed in the ZnO NPs (25 μg/mL) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (22±1.8 mm) and Aspergillus flavus (19±1.0 mm). Bacteria-mediated ZnO NPs were synthesized and proved to be a good novel antimicrobial material for the first time in this study.

Highly potent bactericidal activity of porous metal-organic frameworks

Recent outbreaks of bacterial infection leading to human fatalities have been a motivational force for us to develop antibacterial agents with high potency and long-term stability. A novel cobalt (Co) based metal-organic framework (MOF) was tested and shown to be highly effective at inactivating model microorganisms. Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli (strains DH5alpha and XL1-Blue) were selected to determine the antibacterial activities of the Co MOF. In this MOF, the Co serves as a central element and an octa-topic carboxylate ligand, tetrakis [(3,5-dicarboxyphenyl)-oxamethyl] methane (TDM(8-) ) serves as a bridging linker. X-ray crystallographic studies indicate that Co-TDM crystallizes in tetragonal space group P$\overline 4$2(1) m with a porous 3D framework. The potency of the Co-TDM disinfectant was evaluated using a minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) benchmark and was determined to be 10-15 ppm within a short incubation time period (<60 min). Compared with previous work using silver nanoparticles and silver-modified TiO(2) nano- composites over the same time period, the MBC and effectiveness of Co-TDM are superior. Electron microscopy images indicate that the Co-TDM displayed distinctive grain boundaries and well-developed reticulates. The Co active sites rapidly catalyzed the lipid peroxidation, causing rupture of the bacterial membrane followed by inactivation, with 100% recycling and high persistence (>4 weeks). This MOF-based approach may lead to a new paradigm for MOF applications in diverse biological fields due to their inherent porous structure, tunable surface functional groups, and adjustable metal coordination environments.

Preparation and antibacterial activities of polyaniline/Cu0.05Zn0.95O nanocomposites

Polyaniline/Cu(0.05)Zn(0.95)O (PANI/CZO) nanocomposites were prepared by in situ inverse microemulsion method. Based on the characterization of the crystal structure, chemical composition, and morphology of the samples, it was confirmed that CZO nanoparticles were incorporated into the polyaniline matrix. Studies of the antimicrobial activities of the samples against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans were carried out using powder inhibition zone, minimum inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentrations methods. The results showed clearly that, as an antibacterial agent, PANI/CZO nanocomposites exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against the growth of microorganisms. Furthermore, the antibacterial mechanism of the samples was also deduced in this paper.

The Use of Antimicrobial Nanoparticles to Control Oral Infections

The potential of antimicrobial nanoparticles to control oral infections is reviewed. Such particles can be classified as having a size no greater than 100 nm and are produced using traditional or more novel techniques. Exploitation of the toxic properties of nanoparticles to bacteria, fungi and viruses, in particular metals and metal oxides, and their incorporation into polymeric materials have increased markedly over the past decade. The potential of nanoparticles to control the formation of biofilms within the oral cavity, as a function of their biocidal, anti-adhesive and delivery capabilities, is now receiving close attention. The latest insights into the application of nanoparticles within this field, including their use in photodynamic therapy, will be discussed. Possible approaches to alter biocompatibility and desired function will also be covered.

Synthesis and characterization of the antibacterial potential of ZnO nanoparticles against extended-spectrum β-lactamases-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from a tertiary care hospital of North India

The reemergence of infectious diseases and the continuous development of multidrug resistance among a variety of disease-causing bacteria in clinical setting pose a serious threat to public health worldwide. Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) that mediate resistance to third-generation cephalosporin are now observed all over the world in all species of Enterobacteriaceae, especially Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. In this work, ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by the sol-gel method and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The image of synthesized ZnO NPs appeared spherical in SEM with a diameter of ≈19 nm and as hexagonal crystal in AFM. Clinical isolates were assessed for ESBL production and shown to be sensitive to ZnO NPs by different methods such as minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration, time-dependent growth inhibition assay, well diffusion agar methods and estimation of colony forming units (CFU) of bacteria. The lowest MIC value for E. coli and K. pneumoniae was found to be 500 μg/ml. The results showed that ZnO NPs at 1,000 μg/ml completely inhibit the bacterial growth. The antibacterial effect of ZnO nanoparticles was gradual, but time- and concentration-dependent. The maximum inhibition zone at100 μg/ml for E. coli and K. pneumoniae was 22 and 20 mm, respectively. With the increasing ZnO NP loading, there is significant reduction in the numbers of CFU. At the concentration of 1,000 μg/ml, the decline in per cent survival of E. coli and K. pneumoniae was found to be 99.3% and 98.6%, respectively.

Nanobiotechnologies for the detection and reduction of pathogens

Advances in the manipulation of nanomaterials has permitted the development of nanobiotechnology with enhanced sensitivities and improved response times. Low levels of infection of the major pathogens require the need for sensitive detection platforms and the properties of nanomaterials make them suitable for the development of assays with enhanced sensitivity, improved response time and increased portability. Nanobiotechnologies focusing on the key requirements of signal amplification and pre-concentration for the development of sensitive assays for food-borne pathogen detection in food matrices will be described and evaluated. The potential that exists for the use of nanomaterials as antimicrobial agents will also be examined.

Applications of nanotechnology in food packaging and food safety: barrier materials, antimicrobials and sensors

In this article, several applications of nanomaterials in food packaging and food safety are reviewed, including: polymer/clay nanocomposites as high barrier packaging materials, silver nanoparticles as potent antimicrobial agents, and nanosensors and nanomaterial-based assays for the detection of food-relevant analytes (gasses, small organic molecules and food-borne pathogens). In addition to covering the technical aspects of these topics, the current commercial status and understanding of health implications of these technologies are also discussed. These applications were chosen because they do not involve direct addition of nanoparticles to consumed foods, and thus are more likely to be marketed to the public in the short term.

Antimicrobial Activity of Copper Alone and in Combination with Lactic Acid against Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Laboratory Medium and on the Surface of Lettuce and Tomatoes

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of copper alone and in combination with lactic acid against E. coli O157:H7 in laboratory medium and on the surface of lettuce and tomatoes. Four strains of E. coli O157:H7 were individually inoculated into BHI broth containing different concentrations of copper (5, 10, 20, and 40 ppm, w/v), lactic acid (0.1 and 0.2%, v/v), and their combinations. After incubation, aliquots of 1 mL from each sample were withdrawn and plated on BHI agar to determine the bacterial population. Significant growth inhibition (P < 0.05) was observed with a combination treatment of copper (40 ppm) and lactic acid (0.2%). The population of E. coli O157:H7 was reduced by 3.93 and 3.39 log on the surface of lettuce and tomato samples, respectively, when treated with the same combination. This indicates that combination of copper and lactic acid could be used as an effective solution to inhibit E. coli O157:H7 on fresh produce.

Multifunctional ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats by an electrospinning-electrospraying hybrid process for use in protective applications

ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats were prepared by an electrospinning-electrospraying hybrid process in which ZnO nanoparticles were dispersed on the surface of Nylon 6 nanofibers without becoming completely embedded. The prepared ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats were evaluated for their abilities to kill bacteria or inhibit their growth and to catalytically detoxify chemicals. Results showed that these ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats had excellent antibacterial efficiency (99.99%) against both the Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Bacillus cereus bacteria. In addition, they exhibited good detoxifying efficiency (95%) against paraoxon, a simulant of highly toxic chemicals. ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats were also deposited onto nylon/cotton woven fabrics and the nanofiber mats did not significantly affect the moisture vapor transmission rates and air permeability values of the fabrics. Therefore, ZnO/Nylon 6 nanofiber mats prepared by the electrospinning-electrospraying hybrid process are promising material candidates for protective applications.

Influence of scaffold size on bactericidal activity of nitric oxide-releasing silica nanoparticles

A reverse microemulsion synthesis was used to prepare amine-functionalized silica nanoparticles of three distinct sizes (i.e., 50, 100, and 200 nm) with similar amine content. The resulting hybrid nanoparticles, consisting of N-(6-aminohexyl)aminopropyltrimethoxysilane and tetraethoxysilane, were highly monodisperse in size. N-Diazeniumdiolate nitric oxide (NO) donors were subsequently formed on secondary amines while controlling reaction conditions to keep the total amount of NO released constant for each particle size. The bactericidal efficacy of the NO-releasing nanoparticles against Pseudomonas aeruginosa increased with decreasing particle size. Additionally, smaller diameter nanoparticles were found to associate with the bacteria at a faster rate and to a greater extent than larger particles. Neither control (non-NO-releasing) nor NO-releasing particles exhibited toxicity toward L929 mouse fibroblasts at concentrations above their respective minimum bactericidal concentrations. This study represents the first investigation of the bactericidal efficacy of NO-releasing silica nanoparticles as a function of particle size.

Immobilization of silver in polypropylene membrane for anti-biofouling performance

In this study, a method was developed to immobilize silver onto polypropylene (PP) membrane surfaces for improved anti-biofouling performance. A commercial PP membrane was first grafted with the thiol functional groups, and then silver ions were immobilized onto the PP membrane surface through coordinating with the thiol groups. The immobilized silver was found to be very stable, with only ~1.1% of the immobilized silver being leached out during a leaching test. The surface of the modified membrane (PPS-Ag) was examined with ATR-FTIR and XPS analysis, which verified the successful grafting of the thiol groups and the coordination of silver ions on the membrane surface. The surface properties of the membrane were also characterized by SEM, AFM and water contact angle measurements. The PPS-Ag membrane was found to have a smoother and more hydrophilic surface than the PP membrane. Both Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli, and Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, were used to evaluate the antibacterial and anti-biofouling performance of the PPS-Ag membrane. From disk diffusion experiments, the PPS-Ag membrane exhibited the capability of inhibiting the growth of both the Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria tested. The anti-biofouling performance of the membrane was assessed by immersion in a mixed suspension of E. coli and S. aureus and filtration tests. The PPS-Ag membrane showed a stable and significantly enhanced anti-biofouling performance as compared with the PP membrane. The results in this study demonstrate that biofouling of a PP membrane can be sufficiently overcome through immobilizing silver onto the membrane surface.

"Nanoantibiotics": a new paradigm for treating infectious diseases using nanomaterials in the antibiotics resistant era

Despite the fact that we live in an era of advanced and innovative technologies for elucidating underlying mechanisms of diseases and molecularly designing new drugs, infectious diseases continue to be one of the greatest health challenges worldwide. The main drawbacks for conventional antimicrobial agents are the development of multiple drug resistance and adverse side effects. Drug resistance enforces high dose administration of antibiotics, often generating intolerable toxicity, development of new antibiotics, and requests for significant economic, labor, and time investments. Recently, nontraditional antibiotic agents have been of tremendous interest in overcoming resistance that is developed by several pathogenic microorganisms against most of the commonly used antibiotics. Especially, several classes of antimicrobial nanoparticles (NPs) and nanosized carriers for antibiotics delivery have proven their effectiveness for treating infectious diseases, including antibiotics resistant ones, in vitro as well as in animal models. This review summarizes emerging efforts in combating against infectious diseases, particularly using antimicrobial NPs and antibiotics delivery systems as new tools to tackle the current challenges in treating infectious diseases.