Alpha to omega for molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂)-based antibacterial nanomaterials

Addressing antimicrobial resistance is crucial in microbial studies, especially in creating alternative drug candidates vital for protecting human health from multidrug-resistant microorganisms. Nanomaterials (NMs) have emerged as a potential solution, drawing considerable interest owing to their unique structural and functional characteristics that render them effective against microbes. Two-dimensional NMs, particularly those based on molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), have shown promise as antimicrobial agents owing to their exceptional properties. Although research has advanced in exploring and applying MoS₂ NMs for antimicrobial purposes, strategies for optimizing and modifying their use as antimicrobial agents remain in their early developmental stages. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the current MoS₂ NMs for antimicrobial applications, including their synthesis, properties, optimization techniques, and modifications, as well as their mechanisms of action. This review also addresses the limitations of the individual materials and proposes future directions for overcoming these challenges. This compilation serves as an invaluable resource for scientists working on the development of targeted antimicrobial agents.