Biological Functions of Silver Nanowires in Inhibiting Vibrio Pathogens and Modulating Shrimp Hemocyte Immunity

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology in Aquaculture
• Aquatic Animal Health
• Antimicrobial Agents

Background:

• Silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-based products are increasingly used in aquaculture for antimicrobial and immunomodulatory benefits.
• Vibriosis, caused by Vibrio pathogens, is a significant threat to shrimp aquaculture globally.
• Developing novel agents to manage shrimp diseases and enhance immune function is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biological activities of synthesized silver nanowires (AgNWs).
• To evaluate the anti-Vibrio efficacy and immunomodulatory effects of AgNWs for shrimp aquaculture.
• To assess the potential of AgNWs as a functional agent for shrimp disease management.

Main Methods:

• Antibacterial activity was determined by minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against Vibrio pathogens.
• Cytotoxicity was evaluated using white shrimp hemocytes via cell viability assays.
• Immunomodulatory effects were assessed through in vitro gene expression analysis of immune-related genes.

Main Results:

• AgNWs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio alginolyticus, and Vibrio harveyi.
• Hemocyte viability remained high (>90%) at AgNW concentrations up to 1000 mg/L, indicating good biocompatibility.
• AgNWs upregulated the expression of immune-related genes, including lipopolysaccharide and β-1,3-glucan-binding protein (LGBP) and Toll, suggesting immunostimulation.

Conclusions:

• Synthesized AgNWs possess potent antibacterial properties against key Vibrio species.
• AgNWs demonstrate low cytotoxicity and significant immunomodulatory potential in shrimp hemocytes.
• AgNWs show promise as a novel functional agent for managing shrimp diseases in aquaculture.