DNA intercalation studies and antimicrobial activity of Ag@ZrO2 core-shell nanoparticles in vitro

Ag@ZrO2 core-shell nanoparticles were prepared by one pot simultaneous reduction of AgNO3 and hydrolysis of zirconium (IV) isopropoxide. The formation of core-shell nanoparticles was confirmed by absorption, XRD, and HR-TEM techniques. The antibacterial activity of Ag@ZrO2 core-shell nanoparticles against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and the antifungal properties against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were examined by the agar diffusion method. DNA intercalation studies were carried out in CT-DNA. As a result ZrO2 supported on the surface of AgNPs not only prevented aggregation, but also proved to have enhanced antimicrobial activity and DNA intercalation than the Ag nanoparticles.