Silver Nanoclusters with Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial Properties.

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Microbiology
• Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

• Antibiotic resistance poses a critical global health challenge.
• Novel strategies are essential to combat bacterial infections effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the bactericidal activity of silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) coated with 5-mercapto-2-nitrobenzoic acid (MNBA).
• To assess the efficacy of MNBA-AgNCs against key bacterial pathogens.

Main Methods:

• An in vitro bactericidal assay was employed.
• Testing was performed against Gram-negative and Gram-positive ESKAPEE bacteria.
• Evaluation included bacteria from the WHO Priority Pathogen List.

Main Results:

• Small silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) coated with MNBA demonstrated significant bactericidal activity.
• The MNBA-AgNCs were effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria.
• Activity was confirmed against ESKAPEE pathogens and WHO priority bacteria.

Conclusions:

• MNBA-AgNCs exhibit broad-spectrum antibacterial properties.
• Nanoparticle customization is crucial for developing new antimicrobial resistance strategies.
• This approach holds potential for combating global antimicrobial resistance.