A review on nanostructured silver as a basic ingredient in medicine: physicochemical parameters and characterization

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Antimicrobial Agents
• Materials Science

Background:

• Silver metal has a long history as a broad-spectrum bactericidal and virucidal agent.
• Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are emerging as key candidates in nanomedicine for combating infections, including multidrug-resistant pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the various morphologies of AgNPs and their correlation with enhanced bactericidal activity, particularly {111} facets.
• To discuss the importance of characterizing and quantifying AgNPs and silver ion (Ag+) content.
• To analyze the mechanisms of action of AgNPs against bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, for therapeutic efficacy and safety.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent studies on silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and silver metal's antimicrobial properties.
• Correlation of AgNP morphology, specifically {111} facets, with bactericidal activity.
• Analysis of chemical, biological, pharmacological, and toxicological mechanisms of AgNPs and silver ions (Ag+).

Main Results:

• Enhanced bactericidal activity of AgNPs is correlated with their prominent {111} facets.
• Understanding the mechanisms of action of AgNPs against bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, is crucial for therapeutic application.
• Quantification of AgNPs and free silver ions (Ag+) is essential for systematic studies.

Conclusions:

• AgNPs are promising antimicrobial agents in nanomedicine, especially against multidrug-resistant organisms.
• Characterization and quantification of AgNPs and silver ions (Ag+) are necessary for clinical implementation.
• Further systematic studies are needed to fully realize the potential of AgNPs in nanomedicine and clinical practice.