Inactivation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Chitosan Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

Munmun Mukherjee, Sirshendu De1

  • 1Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, Kharagpur - 721302, India.

Abstract

Insights

Chitosan coated iron oxide nanoparticles effectively inactivate Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These nanoparticles demonstrate superior antibacterial activity compared to pure chitosan or iron oxide alone, offering a promising solution for combating resistant bacteria.

Area of Science:

  • Materials Science
  • Nanotechnology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a resilient opportunistic pathogen causing significant respiratory and urinary tract infections.
  • Its pathogenicity is amplified by inherent resistance to conventional antibiotics and disinfectants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Synthesize antibacterial chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles for rapid Pseudomonas aeruginosa inactivation.
  • Review existing patents on metallic nanoparticle and chitosan synthesis and their antibacterial applications.

Main Methods:

  • Chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles synthesized via coprecipitation at room temperature.
  • Utilized non-toxic chitosan and iron salts in an alkaline medium.
  • Characterized nanoparticles and evaluated antibacterial efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Main Results:

  • Synthesized nanoparticles averaged 52 nm with a high surface area (90 ±5 m²/g).
  • FTIR confirmed successful chitosan coating.
  • Demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 105 µg/mL.
  • SEM imaging revealed morphological damage and cytoplasmic leakage in bacteria, indicating potent antibacterial action.

Conclusions:

  • Chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles exhibit significantly enhanced antibacterial properties compared to bare iron oxide nanoparticles and pure chitosan.
  • The developed nanoparticles present a promising strategy for combating Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.