Antibacterial and antifungal activity of chitosan coated iron oxide nanoparticles

The Effect of Iron Oxide Insertion on the In Vitro Bioactivity, and Antibacterial Properties of the 45S5 Bioactive Glass

The aging population and increasing incidence of trauma among younger age groups have heightened the increasing demand for reliable implant materials. Effective implant materials must demonstrate rapid osseointegration and strong antibacterial properties to ensure optimal patient outcomes and decrease the chance of implant rejection. This study aims to enhance the bone-implant interface by utilizing 45S5 bioglass modified with various concentrations of Fe3O4 as a coating material. The effect of the insertion of Fe3O4 into the bioglass structure was studied using Raman spectroscopy which shows that with the increase in Fe3O4 concentration, new vibration bands associated with Fe-related structural units appeared within the sample. The bioactivity of the prepared glasses was evaluated using immersion tests in simulated body fluid, revealing the formation of a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 24 h on the samples, indicating their potential for enhanced tissue integration. However, the sample modified with 8 mol% of Fe3O4 showed low reactivity, developing a calcium phosphate-rich layer within 96 h. All the bioglasses showed antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The modified bioglass did not present significant antibacterial properties compared to the bioglass base.

Advances in the Optimization of Fe Nanoparticles: Unlocking Antifungal Properties for Biomedical Applications

In recent years, nanotechnology has achieved a remarkable status in shaping the future of biological applications, especially in combating fungal diseases. Owing to excellence in nanotechnology, iron nanoparticles (Fe NPs) have gained enormous attention in recent years. In this review, we have provided a comprehensive overview of Fe NPs covering key synthesis approaches and underlying working principles, the factors that influence their properties, essential characterization techniques, and the optimization of their antifungal potential. In addition, the diverse kinds of Fe NP delivery platforms that command highly effective release, with fewer toxic effects on patients, are of great significance in the medical field. The issues of biocompatibility, toxicity profiles, and applications of optimized Fe NPs in the field of biomedicine have also been described because these are the most significant factors determining their inclusion in clinical use. Besides this, the difficulties and regulations that exist in the transition from laboratory to experimental clinical studies (toxicity, specific standards, and safety concerns) of Fe NPs-based antifungal agents have been also summarized.

Reversing valproic acid-induced autism-like behaviors through a combination of low-frequency repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a neurostimulation device used to modulate brain cortex activity. Our objective was to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of low-frequency repeated TMS (LF-rTMS) in a rat model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) induced by prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure through the injection of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). For the induction of ASD, we administered prenatal VPA (600 mg/kg, I.P.) on the 12.5th day of pregnancy. At postnatal day 30, SPIONs were injected directly into the lateral ventricle of the brain. Subsequently, LF-rTMS treatment was applied for 14 consecutive days. Following the treatment period, behavioral analyses were conducted. At postnatal day 60, brain tissue was extracted, and both biochemical and histological analyses were performed. Our data revealed that prenatal VPA exposure led to behavioral alterations, including changes in social interactions, increased anxiety, and repetitive behavior, along with dysfunction in stress coping strategies. Additionally, we observed reduced levels of SYN, MAP2, and BDNF. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in dendritic spine density in the hippocampal CA1 area. However, LF-rTMS treatment combined with SPIONs successfully reversed these dysfunctions at the behavioral, biochemical, and histological levels, introducing a successful approach for the treatment of ASD.

Vancomycin and nisin-modified magnetic Fe3O4@SiO2 nanostructures coated with chitosan to enhance antibacterial efficiency against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection in a murine superficial wound model

BACKGROUND

The objective of this research was to prepare some Fe3O4@SiO2@Chitosan (CS) magnetic nanocomposites coupled with nisin, and vancomycin to evaluate their antibacterial efficacy under both in vitro and in vivo against the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus. aureus (MRSA).

METHODS

In this survey, the Fe3O4@SiO2 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were constructed as a core and covered the surface of MNPs via crosslinking CS by glutaraldehyde as a shell, then functionalized with vancomycin and nisin to enhance the inhibitory effects of nanoparticles (NPs). X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques were then used to describe the nanostructures.

RESULTS

Based on the XRD, and FE-SEM findings, the average size of the modified magnetic nanomaterials were estimated to be around 22-35 nm, and 34-47 nm, respectively. The vancomycin was conjugated in three polymer-drug ratios; 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1, with the percentages of 45.52%, 35.68%, and 24.4%, respectively. The polymer/drug ratio of 1:1 exhibited the slowest release rate of vancomycin from the Fe3O4@SiO2@CS-VANCO nanocomposites during 24 h, which was selected to examine their antimicrobial effects under in vivo conditions. The nisin was grafted onto the nanocomposites at around 73.2-87.2%. All the compounds resulted in a marked reduction in the bacterial burden (P-value < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The vancomycin-functionalized nanocomposites exhibited to be more efficient in eradicating the bacterial cells both in vitro and in vivo. These findings introduce a novel bacteriocin-metallic nanocomposite that can suppress the normal bacterial function on demand for the treatment of MRSA skin infections.

Chitosan as excellent bio-macromolecule with myriad of anti-activities in biomedical applications - A review

The aim of the study is to explore the myriad of anti-activities of chitosan - deacylated derivative of chitin in biomedical applications. Chitosan consists of reactive residual amino groups, which can be modified chemically to obtain wide range of derivatives. These derivatives exhibit the controlled physicochemical characteristics, which in turn improve its functional properties. Such derivatives find numerous applications in the field of biomedical science, agriculture, tissue engineering, bone regeneration and environmental science. This study presents a comprehensive overview of the multifarious anti-activities of chitosan and its derivatives in the field of biomedical science including anti-microbial, antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-HIV, anti-fungal, anti- inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer's, anti-hypertensive and anti-diabetic activity. It briefly details these anti-activities with respect to its mode of action, pharmacological effects and potential applications. It also presents the overview of current research exploring novel derivatives of chitosan and its anti- activities in the recent past. Finally, the review projects the prospective potential of chitosan and its derivatives and expects to encourage the readers to develop new drug delivery systems based on such chitosan derivatives and explore its applications in biomedical science for benefit of mankind.

Green synthesis of iron nanoparticles: Sources and multifarious biotechnological applications

Green synthesis of iron nanoparticles is a highly fascinating research area and has gained importance due to reliable, sustainable and ecofriendly protocol for synthesizing nanoparticles, along with the easy availability of plant materials and their pharmacological significance. As an alternate to physical and chemical synthesis, the biological materials, like microorganisms and plants are considered to be less costly and environment-friendly. Iron nanoparticles with diverse morphology and size have been synthesized using biological extracts. Microbial (bacteria, fungi, algae etc.) and plant extracts have been employed in green synthesis of iron nanoparticles due to the presence of various metabolites and biomolecules. Physical and biochemical properties of biologically synthesized iron nanoparticles are superior to that are synthesized using physical and chemical agents. Iron nanoparticles have magnetic property with thermal and electrical conductivity. Iron nanoparticles below a certain size (generally 10-20 nm), can exhibit a unique form of magnetism called superparamagnetism. They are non-toxic and highly dispersible with targeted delivery, which are suitable for efficient drug delivery to the target. Green synthesized iron nanoparticles have been explored for multifarious biotechnological applications. These iron nanoparticles exhibited antimicrobial and anticancerous properties. Iron nanoparticles adversely affect the cell viability, division and metabolic activity. Iron nanoparticles have been used in the purification and immobilization of various enzymes/proteins. Iron nanoparticles have shown potential in bioremediation of various organic and inorganic pollutants. This review describes various biological sources used in the green synthesis of iron nanoparticles and their potential applications in biotechnology, diagnostics and mitigation of environmental pollutants.

Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Green Synthesis and Their Antimicrobial Activity

The rise of antimicrobial resistance caused by inappropriate use of these agents in various settings has become a global health threat. Nanotechnology offers the potential for the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) with antimicrobial activity, such as iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The use of IONPs is a promising way to overcome antimicrobial resistance or pathogenicity because of their ability to interact with several biological molecules and to inhibit microbial growth. In this review, we outline the pivotal findings over the past decade concerning methods for the green synthesis of IONPs using bacteria, fungi, plants, and organic waste. Subsequently, we delve into the primary challenges encountered in green synthesis utilizing diverse organisms and organic materials. Furthermore, we compile the most common methods employed for the characterization of these IONPs. To conclude, we highlight the applications of these IONPs as promising antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiviral agents.

Antibacterial properties and osteoblast interactions of microfluidically synthesized chitosan - SPION composite nanoparticles

In this research, a multi-step microfluidic reactor was used to fabricate chitosan - superparamagnetic iron oxide composite nanoparticles (Ch - SPIONs), where composite formation using chitosan was aimed to provide antibacterial property and nanoparticle stability for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Monodispersed Ch - SPIONs had an average particle size of 8.8 ± 1.2 nm with a magnetization value of 32.0 emu/g. Ch - SPIONs could be used as an MRI contrast agent by shortening T2 relaxation parameter of the surrounding environment, as measured on a 3 T MRI scanner. In addition, Ch - SPIONs with concentrations less than 1 g/L promoted bone cell (osteoblast) viability up to 7 days of culture in vitro in the presence of 0.4 T external static magnetic field. These nanoparticles were also tested against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), which are dangerous pathogens that cause infection in tissues and biomedical devices. Upon interaction of Ch - SPIONs with S. aureus and P. aeruginosa at 0.01 g/L concentration, nearly a 2-fold reduction in the number of colonies was observed for both bacteria strains at 48 h of culture. Results cumulatively showed that Ch - SPIONs were potential candidates as a cytocompatible and antibacterial agent that can be targeted to biofilm and imaged using an MRI.

White-Light-Responsive Prussian Blue Nanophotonic Particles for Effective Eradication of Bacteria and Improved Healing of Infected Cutaneous Wounds

The increasing burden of cutaneous wound infections with drug-resistant bacteria underlines the dire need for novel treatment approaches. Here, we report the preparation steps, characterization, and antibacterial efficacy of novel chitosan-coated Prussian blue nanoparticles loaded with the photosensitizer fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (CHPB-FD). With excellent photothermal and photodynamic properties, CHPB-FD nanoparticles can effectively eradicate both Gram-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa in vitro and in vivo. The antibacterial efficacy of CHPB-FD nanophotonic particles further increases in the presence of white light. Using a bacteria-infected cutaneous wound rat model, we demonstrate that CHPB-FD particles upregulate genes involved in tissue remodeling, promote collagen deposition, reduce unwanted inflammation, and enhance healing. The light-responsive CHPB-FD nanophotonic particles can, therefore, be potentially used as an economical and safe alternative to antibiotics for effectively decontaminating skin wounds and for disinfecting biomedical equipment and surfaces in hospitals and other places.

Iron Nanoparticles Open Up New Directions for Promoting Healing in Chronic Wounds in the Context of Bacterial Infection

Metal nanoparticles play an outstanding role in the field of wound healing due to their excellent properties, and the significance of iron, one of the most widely used metals globally, cannot be overlooked. The purpose of this review is to determine the importance of iron nanoparticles in wound-healing dressings. Prolonged, poorly healing wounds may induce infections; wound infections are a major cause of chronic wound formation. The primary components of iron nanoparticles are iron oxide nanoparticles, which promote wound healing by being antibacterial, releasing metal ions, and overcoming bacterial resistance. The diameter of iron oxide nanoparticles typically ranges between 1 and 100 nm. Magnetic nanoparticles with a diameter of less than 30 nm are superparamagnetic and are referred to as superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. This subset of iron oxide nanoparticles can use an external magnetic field for novel functions such as magnetization and functionalization. Iron nanoparticles can serve clinical purposes not only to enhance wound healing through the aforementioned means but also to ameliorate anemia and glucose irregularities, capitalizing on iron's properties. Iron nanoparticles positively impact the healing process of chronic wounds, potentially extending beyond wound management.

Trends in Food Pathogens Risk Attenuation

Foodborne pathogens represent one of the most dangerous threats to public health along the food chain all over the world. Over time, many methods were studied for pathogen inhibition in food, such as the development of novel packaging materials with enhanced properties for microorganisms' growth inhibition (coatings, films) and the use of emerging technologies, like ultrasound, radio frequency or microwave. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current trends in the food industry for pathogenic microorganisms' inhibition and food preservation in two directions, namely technology used for food processing and novel packaging materials development. Five technologies were discussed in this study, namely high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP), High-Pressure Processing (HPP), microwaves, radio frequency (RF) heating and ultrasound. These technologies proved to be efficient in the reduction of pathogenic microbial loads in different food products. Further, a series of studies were performed, related to novel packaging material development, by using a series of antimicrobial agents such as natural extracts, bacteriocins or antimicrobial nanoparticles. These materials proved to be efficient in the inhibition of a wide range of microorganisms, including Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, fungi and yeasts.

Association of polymicrobial interactions with dental caries development and prevention

Dental caries is a common oral disease. In many cases, disruption of the ecological balance of the oral cavity can result in the occurrence of dental caries. There are many cariogenic microbiota and factors, and their identification allows us to take corresponding prevention and control measures. With the development of microbiology, the caries-causing bacteria have evolved from the traditional single Streptococcus mutans to the discovery of oral symbiotic bacteria. Thus it is necessary to systematically organized the association of polymicrobial interactions with dental caries development. In terms of ecology, caries occurs due to an ecological imbalance of the microbiota, caused by the growth and reproduction of cariogenic microbiota due to external factors or the disruption of homeostasis by one's own factors. To reduce the occurrence of dental caries effectively, and considering the latest scientific viewpoints, caries may be viewed from the perspective of ecology, and preventive measures can be taken; hence, this article systematically summarizes the prevention and treatment of dental caries from the aspects of ecological perspectives, in particular the ecological biofilm formation, bacterial quorum sensing, the main cariogenic microbiota, and preventive measures.

Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Brain Imaging and Drug Delivery

Central nervous system (CNS) disorders affect as many as 1.5 billion people globally. The limited delivery of most imaging and therapeutic agents into the brain is a major challenge for treatment of CNS disorders. With the advent of nanotechnologies, controlled delivery of drugs with nanoparticles holds great promise in CNS disorders for overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and improving delivery efficacy. In recent years, magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONPs) have stood out as a promising theranostic nanoplatform for brain imaging and drug delivery as they possess unique physical properties and biodegradable characteristics. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in MIONP-based platforms as imaging and drug delivery agents for brain diseases. We firstly introduce the methods of synthesis and surface functionalization of MIONPs with emphasis on the inclusion of biocompatible polymers that allow for the addition of tailored physicochemical properties. We then discuss the recent advances in in vivo imaging and drug delivery applications using MIONPs. Finally, we present a perspective on the remaining challenges and possible future directions for MIONP-based brain delivery systems.

Prospects of coupled iron-based nanostructures in preclinical antibacterial therapy

Bacterial infections can threaten human health. Drug-resistant bacteria have become a challenge because of the excessive use of drugs. We summarize the current metallic antibacterial materials, especially Fe-based materials, for efficiently killing bacteria. The possible antibacterial mechanisms of metallic antibacterial agents are classified into interactions with bacterial proteins, iron metabolism, catalytic activity, and combinations of magnetic, photodynamic, and photothermal effects. This review will inspire the development of novel Fe-based antibacterial agents for clinical settings.

Application of Iron Nanoparticle-Based Materials in the Food Industry

Due to their different properties compared to other materials, nanoparticles of iron and iron oxides are increasingly used in the food industry. Food technologists have especially paid attention to their ease of separation by magnetic fields and biocompatibility. Unfortunately, the consumption of increasing amounts of nanoparticles has raised concerns about their biotoxicity. Hence, knowledge about the applicability of iron nanoparticle-based materials in the food industry is needed not only among scientists, but also among all individuals who are involved in food production. The first part of this article describes typical methods of obtaining iron nanoparticles using chemical synthesis and so-called green chemistry. The second part of this article describes the use of iron nanoparticles and iron nanoparticle-based materials for active packaging, including the ability to eliminate oxygen and antimicrobial activity. Then, the possibilities of using the magnetic properties of iron nano-oxides for enzyme immobilization, food analysis, protein purification and mycotoxin and histamine removal from food are described. Other described applications of materials based on iron nanoparticles are the production of artificial enzymes, process control, food fortification and preserving food in a supercooled state. The third part of the article analyzes the biocompatibility of iron nanoparticles, their impact on the human body and the safety of their use.

Nano-decolorization of methylene blue by Phyllanthus reticulatus iron nanoparticles: an eco-friendly synthesis and its antimicrobial, phytotoxicity study

The present study was investigated to synthesis the iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) using the leaf extract of Phyllanthus reticulatus. The phytosynthesized FeNPs exhibited UV-visible absorption peaks at 229 nm and its crystalline nature was confirmed through XRD. FT-IR analysis revealed the presence of various functional groups which are responsible for the bioreduction of FeNPs. The SEM results showed that FeNPs were aggregated, irregular sphere shaped with rough surfaces and EDX spectrum recorded densely occupied iron nanoparticles region. The particle size range of the synthesized iron nanoparticles was 185.6 nm. The FeNPs showed potential methylene blue decolourisation activity which was visually observed by gradual colour change in the dye solution from deep blue to colorless. The control exhibited no change in coloration during exposure to sunlight and the iron nanoparticles completely disintegrated the methylene blue within 10 s in 10 mg/L methylene blue (98%), whereas the color change was decreased when the concentration of the dye increased. In addition, the phyto-synthesized FeNPs exhibited extensive antibacterial and antifungal activity against the selected pathogens. Phytotoxicity assay confirms the potential of biosynthesized iron nanoparticles as a fertilizer for the growth of green gram seeds. Thus the present study leads to development of cost-effective green synthesis, reduction of toxic chemicals and its extensive applications in the biological sciences.

Core-Shell Fe3O4@C Nanoparticles for the Organic Dye Adsorption and Targeted Magneto-Mechanical Destruction of Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma Cells

The morphology, structure, and magnetic properties of Fe₃O₄ and Fe₃O₄@C nanoparticles, as well their effectiveness for organic dye adsorption and targeted destruction of carcinoma cells, were studied. The nanoparticles exhibited a high magnetic saturation value (79.4 and 63.8 emu/g, correspondingly) to facilitate magnetic separation. It has been shown that surface properties play a key role in the adsorption process. Both types of organic dyes-cationic (Rhodomine C) and anionic (Congo Red and Eosine)-were well adsorbed by the Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles' surface, and the adsorption process was described by the polymolecular adsorption model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 58, 22, and 14 mg/g for Congo Red, Eosine, and Rhodomine C, correspondingly. In this case, the kinetic data were described well by the pseudo-first-order model. Carbon-coated particles selectively adsorbed only cationic dyes, and the adsorption process for Methylene Blue was described by the Freundlich model, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 14 mg/g. For the case of Rhodomine C, the adsorption isotherm has a polymolecular character with a maximum adsorption capacity of 34 mg/g. To realize the targeted destruction of the carcinoma cells, the Fe₃O₄@C nanoparticles were functionalized with aptamers, and an experiment on the Ehrlich ascetic carcinoma cells' destruction was carried out successively using a low-frequency alternating magnetic field. The number of cells destroyed as a result of their interaction with Fe₃O₄@C nanoparticles in an alternating magnetic field was 27%, compared with the number of naturally dead control cells of 6%.

The Development of New Nanocomposite Polytetrafluoroethylene/Fe2O3 NPs to Prevent Bacterial Contamination in Meat Industry

The bacterial contamination of cutting boards and other equipment in the meat processing industry is one of the key reasons for reducing the shelf life and consumer properties of products. There are two ways to solve this problem. The first option is to create coatings with increased strength in order to prevent the formation of micro damages that are favorable for bacterial growth. The second possibility is to create materials with antimicrobial properties. The use of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coatings with the addition of metal oxide nanoparticles will allow to the achieving of both strength and bacteriostatic effects at the same time. In the present study, a new coating based on PTFE and Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles was developed. Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles were synthesized by laser ablation in water and transferred into acetone using the developed procedures. An acetone-based colloidal solution was mixed with a PTFE-based varnish. Composites with concentrations of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles from 0.001-0.1% were synthesized. We studied the effect of the obtained material on the generation of ROS (hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals), 8-oxoguanine, and long-lived active forms of proteins. It was found that PTFE did not affect the generation of all the studied compounds, and the addition of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles increased the generation of H₂O₂ and hydroxyl radicals by up to 6 and 7 times, respectively. The generation of 8-oxoguanine and long-lived reactive protein species in the presence of PTFE/Fe₂O₃ NPs at 0.1% increased by 2 and 3 times, respectively. The bacteriostatic and cytotoxic effects of the developed material were studied. PTFE with the addition of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles, at a concentration of 0.001% or more, inhibited the growth of E. coli by 2-5 times compared to the control or PTFE without NPs. At the same time, PTFE, even with the addition of 0.1% Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles, did not significantly impact the survival of eukaryotic cells. It was assumed that the resulting composite material could be used to cover cutting boards and other polymeric surfaces in the meat processing industry.

Synthesis of CoFe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles for application in photocatalytic removal of azithromycin from wastewater

Azithromycin is one of the most widely used antibiotics in medicine prescribed for various infectious diseases such as COVID-19. A significant amount of this drug is always disposed of in hospital effluents. In this study, the removal of azithromycin using Cobalt-Ferrite magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) is investigated in the presence of UV light. For this purpose, magnetic nanoparticles are synthesized and added to the test samples as a catalyst in specific proportions. To determine the structural and morphological properties of nanoparticles, characterization tests including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) are performed. 27 runs have been implemented based on the design of experiments using the Box-Behnken Design (BBD) method. Parameters are the initial concentration of azithromycin (20-60 mg/L), contact time (30-90 min), pH (6-10), and the dose of magnetic nanoparticles (20-60 mg/L). The obtained model interprets test results with high accuracy (R² = 0.9531). Also, optimization results by the software show that the contact time of 90 min, MNP dosage of 60 mg/L, pH value of 6.67, and azithromycin initial concentration of 20 mg/L leads to the highest removal efficiency of 89.71%. These numbers are in the range of other studies in this regard.

Antifungal Effect of Nanoparticles against COVID-19 Linked Black Fungus: A Perspective on Biomedical Applications

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus that has caused a 'coronavirus disease 2019' (COVID-19) pandemic in multiple waves, which threatens human health and public safety. During this pandemic, some patients with COVID-19 acquired secondary infections, such as mucormycosis, also known as black fungus disease. Mucormycosis is a serious, acute, and deadly fungal infection caused by Mucorales-related fungal species, and it spreads rapidly. Hence, prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary to avoid high mortality and morbidity rates. Major risk factors for this disease include uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and immunosuppression that can also facilitate increases in mucormycosis infections. The extensive use of steroids to prevent the worsening of COVID-19 can lead to black fungus infection. Generally, antifungal agents dedicated to medical applications must be biocompatible, non-toxic, easily soluble, efficient, and hypoallergenic. They should also provide long-term protection against fungal growth. COVID-19-related black fungus infection causes a severe increase in fatalities. Therefore, there is a strong need for the development of novel and efficient antimicrobial agents. Recently, nanoparticle-containing products available in the market have been used as antimicrobial agents to prevent bacterial growth, but little is known about their efficacy with respect to preventing fungal growth, especially black fungus. The present review focuses on the effect of various types of metal nanoparticles, specifically those containing silver, zinc oxide, gold, copper, titanium, magnetic, iron, and carbon, on the growth of various types of fungi. We particularly focused on how these nanoparticles can impact the growth of black fungus. We also discussed black fungus co-infection in the context of the global COVID-19 outbreak, and management and guidelines to help control COVID-19-associated black fungus infection. Finally, this review aimed to elucidate the relationship between COVID-19 and mucormycosis.

Photothermally responsive chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles for enhanced eradication of bacterial biofilms

This work developed a pH/NIR responsive antibacterial agent (CS-FeNPs) composed of chitosan (CS) and Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (FeNPs). CS triggers bacterial attraction through surface charge, while Fe acts as a photothermal agent (PTA). The CS-Fe NPs exhibited antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against both bacteria (G+/G-). However, higher activity was observed against bacteria (G-) due to electrostatic interactions. The CS-FeNPs bind with the bacterial membrane through electrostatic interactions and disturb bacterial cells. Later, in an acidic environment, CS-FeNPs bind with bacterial membrane, and NIR irradiation leads the antibacterial activity. CS-FeNPs exhibited a potential photothermal conversion efficiency (η) of 21.53 %. Thus, it converts NIR irradiation into heat to kill the bacterial pathogen. The CS-FeNPs were found to be less cytotoxic with great antibacterial efficiency on planktonic bacteria and their biofilm, which indicates that they deserve to develop potential and safe treatment strategies for the treatment of bacterial infections.

Synthesis of silver/Fe3O4@chitosan@polyvinyl alcohol magnetic nanoparticles as an antibacterial agent for accelerating wound healing

Bacterial infection causes wound inflammation and slows wound healing, posing a great threat to human health, which needs to explore more antibacterial nanobiomaterials to promote wound healing. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop low-cost silver/Fe₃O₄@Chitosan@polyvinyl alcohol (Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA) via a one-pot method to promote healing in bacteria-infected wounds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) confirmed that Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA was successfully prepared. In vitro antibacterial experiments demonstrated strong antibacterial activity of Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA destroyed the bacterial cell membrane or internal structure, thus resulting in cell death for antibacterial effects. Cytotoxicity and hemolysis rate tests showed that Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA posed fine biocompatibility. In addition, in vivo assays confirmed that Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA not only promoted the healing of wound infection caused by bacteria, but also had no toxic effect on mouse organs. Therefore, the low-cost Ag/Fe₃O₄@CS@PVA nanocomposites have great potential in controlling 'bacterial' pathogen.

Metal-Based Nanoparticles: Antibacterial Mechanisms and Biomedical Application

The growing increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria has led to the search for new antibacterial agents capable of overcoming the resistance problem. In recent years, nanoparticles (NPs) have been increasingly used to target bacteria as an alternative to antibiotics. The most promising nanomaterials for biomedical applications are metal and metal oxide NPs, due to their intrinsic antibacterial activity. Although NPs show interesting antibacterial properties, the mechanisms underlying their action are still poorly understood, limiting their use in clinical applications. In this review, an overview of the mechanisms underlying the antibacterial activity of metal and metal oxide NPs will be provided, relating their efficacy to: (i) bacterial strain; (ii) higher microbial organizations (biofilm); (iii) and physico-chemical properties of NPs. In addition, bacterial resistance strategies will be also discussed to better evaluate the feasibility of the different treatments adopted in the clinical safety fields. Finally, a wide analysis on recent biomedical applications of metal and metal oxide NPs with antibacterial activity will be provided.

3D bioprinting of nanoparticle-laden hydrogel scaffolds with enhanced antibacterial and imaging properties

Biomaterial-associated microbial contaminations in biologically conducive three-dimensional (3D) tissue-engineered constructs have significantly limited the clinical applications of scaffold systems. To prevent such infections, antimicrobial biomaterials are rapidly evolving. Yet, the use of such materials in bioprinting-based approaches of scaffold fabrication has not been examined. This study introduces a new generation of bacteriostatic gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-based bioinks, incorporated with varying doses of antibacterial superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). The SPION-laden GelMA scaffolds showed significant resistance against the Staphylococcus aureus growth, while providing a contrast in magnetic resonance imaging. We simulated the bacterial contamination of cellular 3D GelMA scaffolds in vitro and demonstrated the significant effect of functionalized scaffolds in inhibiting bacterial growth, while maintaining cell viability and growth. Together, these results present a new promising class of functionalized bioinks to 3D bioprint tissue-engineered scaffold with markedly enhanced properties for the use in a variety of in vitro and clinical applications.

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Functionalized bioinks with bacteriostatic properties are developed and thoroughly characterized

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The 200 μg/mL group yielded an optimal balance of printed scaffold properties

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Incorporating nanoparticle also enabled noninvasive imaging of the bioprinted scaffold

Humic Acid-Coated Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Confer Resistance to Acremonium Wilt Disease and Improve Physiological and Morphological Attributes of Grain Sorghum

Acremonium wilt disease affects grain quality and reduces sorghum yield around the globe. The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of humic acid (HA)-coated Fe₃O₄ (Fe₃O₄/HA) nanoparticles (NPs) in controlling acremonium wilt disease and improving sorghum growth and yields. During the season 2019, twenty-one sorghum genotypes were screened to assess their response to Acremonium striticum via artificial infection under field conditions and each genotype was assigned to one of six groups, ranging from highly susceptible to highly resistant. Subsequently, over the two successive seasons 2020 and 2021, three different concentrations of 10, 40 and 80 mg L⁻¹ of Fe₃O₄/HA NPs were tested against A. striticum. The concentrations of 40 and 80 mg L⁻¹ were found to be highly effective in controlling acremonium wilt disease on different sorghum genotypes: LG1 (highly susceptible), Giza-3 (susceptible), and Local 119 (resistant) genotypes. After harvest, the physiological (growth and yield) and biochemical (peroxidase, catalase, and gibberellic acid) attributes of sorghum plants were determined, and the results demonstrated that concentrations of 40 and 80 mg L⁻¹ increased peroxidase and catalase activities in healthy (uninoculated) sorghum genotypes compared to inoculated sorghum genotypes. Additionally, the toxicity of Fe₃O₄/HA NPs on male albino rats was investigated via hematological (CBC), chemical (ALT and AST) and histopathological analyses. The concentration 80 mg L⁻¹ of Fe₃O₄/HA NPs caused a marked increase in ALT and creatinine level after 51 days of feeding. Severe pathological alterations were also observed in liver and kidney tissues of rats administered with grain sorghums treated with 80 mg L⁻¹. In comparison with the untreated control plants, a concentration of 40 mg L⁻¹ significantly increased the growth, yield and gibberellic acid levels (p ≤ 0.05) and was found to be safe in male albino rats. Conclusively, a concentration of 40 mg L⁻¹ of Fe₃O₄/HA NPs showed promising results in curtailing A. striticum infections in sorghum, indicating its great potential to substitute harmful fertilizers and fungicides as a smart agriculture strategy.

Biosafety Construction Composite Based on Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and PLGA

Nanocomposites based on polymers and nanoparticles are used in agriculture for photoconversion of solar radiation, as a basis for covering material, as a packaging material, and as functional films. At the same time, nanocomposites are almost never used in agriculture as biosafe structural materials. In this work, we have developed a technology for obtaining a nanocomposite based on PLGA and iron oxide nanoparticles. The nanocomposite has unique physical and chemical properties and also exhibits pronounced antibacterial properties at a concentration of iron oxide nanoparticles of more than 0.01%. At the same time, the nanocomposite does not affect the growth and development of pepper and is biocompatible with mammalian cells. Nanocomposites based on PLGA and iron oxide nanoparticles can be an attractive candidate for the manufacture of structural and packaging materials in agriculture.

Overcoming Multidrug Resistance of Antibiotics via Nanodelivery Systems

Antibiotic resistance has become a threat to microbial therapies nowadays. The conventional approaches possess several limitations to combat microbial infections. Therefore, to overcome such complications, novel drug delivery systems have gained pharmaceutical scientists’ interest. Significant findings have validated the effectiveness of novel drug delivery systems such as polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, metallic nanoparticles, dendrimers, and lipid-based nanoparticles against severe microbial infections and combating antimicrobial resistance. This review article comprises the specific mechanism of antibiotic resistance development in bacteria. In addition, the manuscript incorporated the advanced nanotechnological approaches with their mechanisms, including interaction with the bacterial cell wall, inhibition of biofilm formations, activation of innate and adaptive host immune response, generation of reactive oxygen species, and induction of intracellular effect to fight against antibiotic resistance. A section of this article demonstrated the findings related to the development of delivery systems. Lastly, the role of microfluidics in fighting antimicrobial resistance has been discussed. Overall, this review article is an amalgamation of various strategies to study the role of novel approaches and their mechanism to fight against the resistance developed to the antimicrobial therapies.

Rare-Earth Doped Iron Oxide Nanostructures for Cancer Theranostics: Magnetic Hyperthermia and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have been extensively investigated during the last couple of decades because of their potential applications across various disciplines ranging from spintronics to nanotheranostics. However, pure iron oxide nanoparticles cannot meet the requirement for practical applications. Doping is considered as one of the most prominent and simplest techniques to achieve optimized multifunctional properties in nanomaterials. Doped iron oxides, particularly, rare-earth (RE) doped nanostructures have shown much-improved performance for a wide range of biomedical applications, including magnetic hyperthermia and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), compared to pure iron oxide. Extensive investigations have revealed that bigger-sized RE ions possessing high magnetic moment and strong spin-orbit coupling can serve as promising dopants to significantly regulate the properties of iron oxides for advanced biomedical applications. This review provides a detailed investigation on the role of RE ions as primary dopants for engineering the structural and magnetic properties of Fe₃ O₄ nanoparticles to carefully introspect and correlate their impact on cancer theranostics with a special focus on magnetic hyperthermia and MRI. In addition, prospects for achieving high-performance magnetic hyperthermia and MRI are thoroughly discussed. Finally, suggestions on future work in these two areas are also proposed.

Remarkable histopathological improvement of experimental toxoplasmosis after receiving spiramycin-chitosan nanoparticles formulation

The present study investigated the anti-Toxoplasma effect of chitosan nanoparticles [CS NPs], spiramycin, spiramycin co-administered with metronidazole and spiramycin-CS NPs formulation on the parasite burden and histopathological changes in the liver, spleen and brain in experimentally infected mice. Seventy male Swiss albino mice were classified into seven equal groups: healthy control (I), infected untreated control (II), infected group receiving CS NPs (III), spiramycin administered infected group (IV), infected group receiving spiramycin-metronidazole (V), infected receiving 400 mg/kg spiramycin-CS NPs (VI) and infected treated with spiramycin-loaded CS NPs 100 mg/kg (VII). All groups were inoculated intraperitoneally with 2500 T. gondii tachyzoites RH strain except the healthy control group. All groups were sacrificed on the 8th day after infection. Density of the parasite and histopathological examination of the liver, spleen and brain of all treated mice revealed reduction in the mean tachyzoites count as well as decreased inflammation, congestion and necrosis within tissue sections. Spiramycin-loaded NPs displayed the highest significant reduction in the pathological insult tailed by spiramycin-metronidazole and CS NPs. In conclusion, spiramycin-loaded CS NPs showed a promising synergistic combination in the treatment of the histopathology caused by toxoplasmosis.

Chitosan Protects Immunosuppressed Mice Against Cryptosporidium parvum Infection Through TLR4/STAT1 Signaling Pathways and Gut Microbiota Modulation

Cryptosporidium parvum infection is very common in infants, immunocompromised patients, or in young ruminants, and chitosan supplementation exhibits beneficial effects against the infection caused by C. parvum. This study investigated whether chitosan supplementation modulates the gut microbiota and mediates the TLR4/STAT1 signaling pathways and related cytokines to attenuate C. parvum infection in immunosuppressed mice. Immunosuppressed C57BL/6 mice were divided into five treatment groups. The unchallenged mice received a basal diet (control), and three groups of mice challenged with 1 × 10⁶ C. parvum received a basal diet, a diet supplemented with 50 mg/kg/day paromomycin, and 1 mg/kg/day chitosan, and unchallenged mice treated with 1 mg/kg/day chitosan. Chitosan supplementation regulated serum biochemical indices and significantly (p < 0.01) reduced C. parvum oocyst excretion in infected mice treated with chitosan compared with the infected mice that received no treatment. Chitosan-fed infected mice showed significantly (p < 0.01) decreased mRNA expression levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) compared to infected mice that received no treatment. Chitosan significantly inhibited TLR4 and upregulated STAT1 protein expression (p < 0.01) in C. parvum-infected mice. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that chitosan supplementation increased the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes/Bacteroides, while that of Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, Defferribacteres, and Firmicutes decreased (p < 0.05). Overall, the findings revealed that chitosan supplementation can ameliorate C. parvum infection by remodeling the composition of the gut microbiota of mice, leading to mediated STAT1/TLR4 up- and downregulation and decreased production of IFN-γ and TNF-α, and these changes resulted in better resolution and control of C. parvum infection.

Preparation and characterization of glucose-conjugated super-paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (G-SPIONs) for removal of Edwardsiella tarda and Aeromonas hydrophila from water

The present research was conducted to prepare efficient G-SPIONs by co-precipitation to remove Edwardsiella tarda and Aeromonas hydrophila from the aqueous solution. The synthesized G-SPIONs were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometer, DLS, FEG-TEM, FT-IR, XRD, and VSM analysis. The results showed that the synthesized G-SPIONs had super-paramagnetic properties (58.31 emu/g) and spherical shape (16 ± 3 nm). The antibacterial activity was assessed in sterilized distilled water at different G-SPIONs concentrations viz. 0, 1.5, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 120, and 240 mg/L against E. tarda and A. hydrophila with various bacterial loads viz. 1 × 10³ , 1 × 10⁴ , 1 × 10⁵ , 1 × 10⁶ , and 1 × 10⁷  CFU/ml at different time intervals 15, 30, 45, and 60 min. At a lower bacterial load of E. tarda and A. hydrophila 1 × 10³ -1 × 10⁴  CFU/ml, 100% bacterial load was removed by 15 min exposure with NPs concentration 6-48 mg/L and 1.5-6 mg/L, respectively. Cent percent bacterial removal was observed in both the bacterial species even at higher bacterial load (1 × 10⁵ -1 × 10⁷  CFU/ml) by increasing exposure time (15-60 min) and nanoparticle concentration as well (24-240 mg/L). At an initial bacterial load of E. tarda and A. hydrophila (1 × 10³ -1 × 10⁷  CFU/ml), the EC₅₀ ranged between 0.01-6.51 mg/L and 0.02-3.84 mg/L, respectively, after 15-60 min exposure. Thus, it is concluded that the antibacterial effect of G-SPIONs depends on concentration and exposure time. Hence, G-SPIONs can be used as an antibacterial/biocidal agent to treat Edwardsiellosis and Aeromonosis disease in aquaculture.

Sustainable synthesis of microwave-assisted IONPs using Spinacia oleracea L. for control of fungal wilt by modulating the defense system in tomato plants

BACKGROUND

Changing climate enhances the survival of pests and pathogens, which eventually affects crop yield and reduces its economic value. Novel approaches should be employed to ensure sustainable food security. Nano-based agri-chemicals provide a distinctive mechanism to increase productivity and manage phytopathogens, with minimal environmental distress. In vitro and in greenhouse studies were conducted to evaluate the potential of green-synthesized iron-oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) in suppressing wilt infection caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycospersici, and improving tomato growth (Solanum lycopersicum) and fruit quality.

RESULTS

Various microwave powers (100-1000 W) were used to modulate the properties of the green-synthesized IONPs, using spinach as a starting material. The IONPs stabilized with black coffee extract were substantively characterized using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, dielectric and impedance spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM, respectively), and magnetization analysis. XRD revealed a cubic magnetite (Fe3O4) phase with super-paramagnetic nature, detected at all microwave powers. The binding energies of Fe 2p3/2 (710.9 eV) and Fe 2p1/2 (724.5 eV) of Fe3O4 NPs were confirmed using XPS analysis at a microwave power of 1000 W. Uniform, spherical/cubical-shaped particles with an average diameter of 4 nm were confirmed using SEM and TEM analysis. A significant reduction in mycelial growth and spore germination was observed upon exposure to different IONP treatments. Malformed mycelium, DNA fragmentation, alternation in the cell membrane, and ROS production in F. oxysporum indicated the anti-microbial potential of the IONPs. The particles were applied both through the root (before transplantation) and by means of foliar application (after two weeks) to the infected seedlings. IONPs significantly reduced disease severity by an average of 47.8%, resulting in increased plant growth variables after exposure to 12.5 µg/mL of IONPs. Analysis of photosynthetic pigments, phenolic compounds, and anti-oxidant enzymes in the roots and shoots showed an increasing trend after exposure to various concentrations of IONPs. Correspondingly, lycopene, vitamin C, total flavonoids, and protein content were substantially improved in tomato fruits after treatment with IONPs.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the current investigation suggested that the synthesized IONPs display anti-fungal and nutritional properties that can help to manage Fusarium wilt disease, resulting in enhanced plant growth and fruit quality.

A Novel Biodegradable Composite Polymer Material Based on PLGA and Silver Oxide Nanoparticles with Unique Physicochemical Properties and Biocompatibility with Mammalian Cells

A method for obtaining a stable colloidal solution of silver oxide nanoparticles has been developed using laser ablation. The method allows one to obtain nanoparticles with a monomodal size distribution and a concentration of more than 108 nanoparticles per mL. On the basis of the obtained nanoparticles and the PLGA polymer, a nanocomposite material was manufactured. The manufacturing technology allows one to obtain a nanocomposite material without significant defects. Nanoparticles are not evenly distributed in the material and form domains in the composite. Reactive oxygen species (hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical) are intensively generated on the surfaces of the nanocomposite. Additionally, on the surface of the composite material, an intensive formation of protein long-lived active forms is observed. The ELISA method was used to demonstrate the generation of 8-oxoguanine in DNA on the developed nanocomposite material. It was found that the multiplication of microorganisms on the developed nanocomposite material is significantly decreased. At the same time, the nanocomposite does not inhibit proliferation of mammalian cells. The developed nanocomposite material can be used as an affordable and non-toxic nanomaterial to create bacteriostatic coatings that are safe for humans.

Green synthesis and characterization of Fe3O4 nanoparticles using Chlorella-K01 extract for potential enhancement of plant growth stimulating and antifungal activity

The purpose of this research was to determine the efficacy of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4-NPs) using microalgal products as a plant growth stimulant and antifungal agent. The work was conducted with the phyco-synthesis and characterization of Fe3O4-NPs using 0.1 M ferric/ferrous chloride solution (2:1 ratio; 65 °C) with aqueous extract of the green microalga Chlorella K01. Protein, carbohydrate and polyphenol contents of Chlorella K01 extract were measured. The synthesized microalgal Fe3O4-NPs made a significant contribution to the germination and vigor index of rice, maize, mustard, green grams, and watermelons. Fe3O4-NPs also exhibited antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium tricinctum, Fusarium maniliforme, Rhizoctonia solani, and Phythium sp. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), particle size analysers (PSA), and zeta potential (ZP) measurements were used to characterize these green fabricated magnetite NPs. FTIR analysis showed that the synergy of microalgal proteins, carbohydrtates and polyphenols is responsible for the biofabrication of iron nanoparticles. A spheroid dispersion of biosynthesized Fe3O4-NPs with an average diameter of 76.5 nm was produced in the synthetic process.

New Organosilicon Composite Based on Borosiloxane and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Inhibits Bacterial Growth, but Does Not Have a Toxic Effect on the Development of Animal Eukaryotic Cells

The present study a comprehensive analysis of the antibacterial properties of a composite material based on borosiloxane and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). The effect of the polymer matrix and ZnO NPs on the generation of reactive oxygen species, hydroxyl radicals, and long-lived oxidized forms of biomolecules has been studied. All variants of the composites significantly inhibited the division of E. coli bacteria and caused them to detach from the substrate. It was revealed that the surfaces of a composite material based on borosiloxane and ZnO NPs do not inhibit the growth and division of mammalians cells. It is shown in the work that the positive effect of the incorporation of ZnO NPs into borosiloxane can reach 100% or more, provided that the viscoelastic properties of borosiloxane with nanoparticles are retained.

Anti-Biofilm Coatings Based on Chitosan and Lysozyme Functionalized Magnetite Nanoparticles

Biofilms represent a common and increasingly challenging problem in healthcare practices worldwide, producing persistent and difficult to manage infections. Researchers have started developing antibiotic-free treatment alternatives in order to decrease the risk of resistant microbial strain selection and for the efficient management of antibiotic tolerant biofilm infections. The present study reports the fabrication and characterization of magnetite-based nanostructured coatings for producing biofilm-resistant surfaces. Specifically, magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4) were functionalized with chitosan (CS) and were blended with lysozyme (LyZ) and were deposited using the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique. A variety of characterization techniques were employed to investigate the physicochemical properties of both nanoparticles and nanocoatings. The biological characterization of the coatings assessed through cell viability and antimicrobial tests showed biocompatibility on osteoblasts as well as antiadhesive and antibiofilm activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains and no cytotoxic effect against human-cultured diploid cells.

Antidepressant effects of curcumin-coated iron oxide nanoparticles in a rat model of depression

The antidepressant effect of curcumin-coated iron oxide nanoparticles (Cur-IONPs) was investigated in the current study using depression rat model induced by reserpine. IONPs were synthesized by curcumin as a reducing agent producing Cur-IONPs. Rats were divided into control, depression rat model, and depressed rats treated with Cur-IONPs. After treatment rat behavior was evaluated using forced swimming test (FST). Serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA), monoamine oxidase (MAO), acetylcholinesterase (AchE), Na+, K+, ATPase, lipid peroxidation (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured in the cortex and hippocampus. In depressed rats, FST showed increased immobilization time and reduced swimming time. This was associated with a significant decrease in 5-HT, NE, DA and GSH and a significant increase in MDA and NO levels and GST, MAO, AchE and Na+, K+, ATPase activities in the cortex and hippocampus. Treatment with Cur-NONPs for two weeks increased the swimming time reduced the immobility time, and elevated 5-HT, NE and DA levels. Cur-IONPs attenuated the oxidative stress induced by reserpine and restored the MAO, AchE and Na+, K+, ATPase. The present green method used curcumin in the IONPs synthesis and has several merits; obtaining nanoform of iron oxide, increasing the bioavailability of curcumin and reducing the oxidative stress induced by iron. The present antidepressant effect of Cur-IONPs could be attributed to the ability of Cur-IONPs to restore monoamine neurotransmitter levels by increasing their synthesis and reducing their metabolism. In addition, the antioxidant activity of curcumin prevented oxidative stress in the depressed rats.

Do Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Have Significant Antibacterial Properties?

The use of metal oxide nanoparticles is one of the promising ways for overcoming antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have found wide applications in different fields of biomedicine. Several studies have suggested using the antimicrobial potential of IONPs. Iron is one of the key microelements and plays an important role in the function of living systems of different hierarchies. Iron abundance and its physiological functions bring into question the ability of iron compounds at the same concentrations, on the one hand, to inhibit the microbial growth and, on the other hand, to positively affect mammalian cells. At present, multiple studies have been published that show the antimicrobial effect of IONPs against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and fungi. Several studies have established that IONPs have a low toxicity to eukaryotic cells. It gives hope that IONPs can be considered potential antimicrobial agents of the new generation that combine antimicrobial action and high biocompatibility with the human body. This review is intended to inform readers about the available data on the antimicrobial properties of IONPs, a range of susceptible bacteria, mechanisms of the antibacterial action, dependence of the antibacterial action of IONPs on the method for synthesis, and the biocompatibility of IONPs with eukaryotic cells and tissues.

Do Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Have Significant Antibacterial Properties?

The use of metal oxide nanoparticles is one of the promising ways for overcoming antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have found wide applications in different fields of biomedicine. Several studies have suggested using the antimicrobial potential of IONPs. Iron is one of the key microelements and plays an important role in the function of living systems of different hierarchies. Iron abundance and its physiological functions bring into question the ability of iron compounds at the same concentrations, on the one hand, to inhibit the microbial growth and, on the other hand, to positively affect mammalian cells. At present, multiple studies have been published that show the antimicrobial effect of IONPs against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and fungi. Several studies have established that IONPs have a low toxicity to eukaryotic cells. It gives hope that IONPs can be considered potential antimicrobial agents of the new generation that combine antimicrobial action and high biocompatibility with the human body. This review is intended to inform readers about the available data on the antimicrobial properties of IONPs, a range of susceptible bacteria, mechanisms of the antibacterial action, dependence of the antibacterial action of IONPs on the method for synthesis, and the biocompatibility of IONPs with eukaryotic cells and tissues.

Biosynthesis of chitosan-coated iron oxide (Fe3O4) hybrid nanocomposites from leaf extracts of Brassica oleracea L. and study on their antibacterial potentials

In this study, we prepared chitosan (CS)-coated iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanocomposites (NCs) by employing the aqueous leaf extract of Brassica oleracea L. and evaluated its antimicrobial potential. The characterization of hybrid CS-Fe₃O₄ NCs was performed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis to evaluate the chemical bonding of chitosan to nanoparticles (NPs). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies revealed the presence of oxidation state elements Fe 2p, O 1s, N 1s, and C 1s, and the zeta potential analysis was found to have well-colloidal stability (+ 76.9 mV) of NCs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis determined that CS-Fe₃O₄ NCs were spherical with an average particle size of 27 nm. The X-ray diffractometer (XRD) spectrum ascertained the crystallinity of the hybrid NCs and the vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) inferred the ferromagnetic behavior of the synthesized NCs. Furthermore, the significant antibacterial efficacy of NPs was demonstrated against foodborne bacterial pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), and the highest zone of inhibition was observed to be 11.5 mm and 13.5 mm in CS-Fe₃O₄ NCs, respectively. In comparison with Fe₃O₄ NPs, synergistic impacts of CS-Fe₃O₄ NCs displayed great antibacterial potential as exhibited by a clearly enlarged zone. Thus, CS-Fe₃O₄ NCs could be used as efficacious antimicrobial agents in food packaging and food preservation fields.

Magnetic Nanoparticles-A Multifunctional Potential Agent for Diagnosis and Therapy

Magnetic nanoparticles gained considerable attention in last few years due to their remarkable properties. Superparamaganetism, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, chemical inertness, and environmental friendliness are some of the properties that make iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) an ideal choice for biomedical applications. Along with being easily tuneable and a tailored surface for conjugation of IONPs, their physio-chemical and biological properties can also be varied by modifying the basic parameters for synthesis that enhances the additional possibilities for designing novel magnetic nanomaterial for theranostic applications. This review highlights the synthesis, surface modification, and different applications of IONPs for diagnosis, imaging, and therapy. Furthermore, it also represents the recent report on the application of IONPs as enzyme mimetic compounds and a contrasting agent, and its significance in the field as an anticancer and antimicrobial agent.

Phosphorylation of Guar Gum/Magnetite/Chitosan Nanocomposites for Uranium (VI) Sorption and Antibacterial Applications

The development of new materials is needed to address the environmental challenges of wastewater treatment. The phosphorylation of guar gum combined with its association to chitosan allows preparing an efficient sorbent for the removal of U(VI) from slightly acidic solutions. The incorporation of magnetite nanoparticles enhances solid/liquid. Functional groups are characterized by FTIR spectroscopy while textural properties are qualified by N2 adsorption. The optimum pH is close to 4 (deprotonation of amine and phosphonate groups). Uptake kinetics are fast (60 min of contact), fitted by a pseudo-first order rate equation. Maximum sorption capacities are close to 1.28 and 1.16 mmol U g-1 (non-magnetic and magnetic, respectively), while the sorption isotherms are fitted by Langmuir equation. Uranyl desorption (using 0.2 M HCl solutions) is achieved within 20-30 min; the sorbents can be recycled for at least five cycles (5-6% loss in sorption performance, complete desorption). In multi-component solutions, the sorbents show marked preference for U(VI) and Nd(III) over alkali-earth metals and Si(IV). The zone of exclusion method shows that magnetic sorbent has antibacterial effects against both Gram+ and Gram- bacteria, contrary to non-magnetic material (only Gram+ bacteria). The magnetic composite is highly promising as antimicrobial support and for recovery of valuable metals.