Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 15, 2025
06:42
Author Spotlight: Exploring the Antibacterial Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Overcoming Antibiotic Resistance
Published on: September 27, 2024
2.5K
Zein Nanoparticles Impregnated with Eugenol and Garlic Essential Oils for Treating Fish Pathogens
Angélica I S Luis1, Estefânia V R Campos2, Jhones L de Oliveira1
1Institute of Science and Technology, Laboratory of Environmental Nanotechnology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Sorocaba, SP 18087-180, Brazil.
ACS Omega
|July 9, 2020
Summary
This study introduces a novel nanotechnology approach using plant-based compounds to combat bacterial fish diseases. This sustainable method offers an effective, less harmful alternative to antibiotics for aquaculture.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Nanotechnology
- Phytotherapy
Background:
- Aquaculture provides essential food but faces challenges from bacterial diseases.
- Antibiotic use for disease control poses risks to human health and the environment, including antibiotic resistance.
- Sustainable alternatives are needed to manage fish diseases and ensure food security.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sustainable and effective system for controlling bacterial fish diseases.
- To combine phytotherapy (plant-based compounds) with nanotechnology for enhanced efficacy and reduced harm.
- To create a novel nanoparticle-based delivery system for botanical compounds.
Main Methods:
- Zein nanoparticles were formulated with eugenol and garlic essential oil using antisolvent precipitation.
- Nanoparticles were characterized for physicochemical properties (particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential).
- Encapsulation efficiency, stability, toxicity (using *Artemia salina*), and *in vitro* bactericidal activity against fish pathogens were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Zein nanoparticles exhibited favorable physicochemical properties (approx. 150 nm diameter, PDI < 0.2, zeta potential ~30 mV).
- High encapsulation efficiency (>90%) and stability (90 days) were achieved for the botanical compounds.
- The nanoparticle formulations demonstrated reduced toxicity and significant *in vitro* bactericidal activity against *Aeromonas hydrophila*, *Edwardsiella tarda*, and *Streptococcus iniae*.
Conclusions:
- Zein nanoparticles serve as effective carriers for botanical compounds, offering a promising system for fish disease treatment.
- This phytotherapy-nanotechnology combination presents a sustainable and less harmful alternative to conventional antibiotics in aquaculture.
- The study opens new avenues for developing eco-friendly solutions to bacterial diseases in fish production, enhancing sustainability in the food chain.
