Antimicrobial activity of metal-based nanoparticles: a mini-review
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Updated: Jul 4, 2025
Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activities of Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Surfaces In Vitro
Published on: April 21, 2023
Marharyta Hancharova1, Kinga Halicka-Stępień1, Aleksandra Dupla1
1Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland.
Abstract:
The resistance of pathogenic microorganisms to antibiotics is one of the main problems of world health. Of particular concern are multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Infections caused by these microorganisms affect the appearance of acute or chronic diseases. In this regard, modern technologies, such as nanomaterials (NMs), especially promising nanoparticles (NPs), can possess antimicrobial properties or improve the effectiveness and delivery of known antibiotics. Their diversity and characteristics, combined with surface functionalization, enable multivalent interactions with microbial biomolecules. This article presents an overview of the most current research on replacing antibiotics with NPs, including the prospects and risks involved.
Insights
Multidrug-resistant bacteria pose a global health threat. Nanoparticles (NPs) show promise as alternatives to antibiotics, offering antimicrobial properties and enhanced drug delivery, but risks require careful consideration.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance in pathogenic microorganisms is a critical global health challenge.
- Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria cause severe acute and chronic infections.
- Existing antibiotics are becoming less effective against resistant strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on using nanoparticles (NPs) as alternatives to conventional antibiotics.
- To explore the potential of NPs in combating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.
- To assess the prospects and inherent risks associated with NP-based antimicrobial strategies.
Main Methods:
- Overview of recent scientific literature on nanoparticle applications in antimicrobial therapy.
- Analysis of studies investigating the antimicrobial properties of various nanomaterials (NMs).
- Examination of research on surface functionalization of NPs for enhanced microbial interaction.
Main Results:
- Nanoparticles exhibit intrinsic antimicrobial properties against a range of pathogens.
- Surface modification of NPs allows for targeted delivery and improved efficacy of antimicrobial agents.
- NPs can potentially overcome resistance mechanisms developed by bacteria against traditional antibiotics.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticles represent a promising avenue for developing novel strategies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and mitigate the risks associated with NP use.
- The unique characteristics of NPs offer potential for next-generation antimicrobial treatments.
