Abstract

Mechanism and Application of Metal Nanoparticles as Antimicrobial Agents

Authors: Sadia Batool, Muhammad Hashim, Fouzia Naseem, Muhammad Fahad Razzaq, Muhammad Fakhar, Rizwan Ullah Bin Khalid, Hira Ejaz, Zarqa Minal, Ali Asad, Arslan Muhammad Ali Khan, and Muhammad Zulqarnain Shakir

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.71081/cvj/2025.041

Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the major concerns worldwide that has emerged as the leading source of mortality and morbidity due to bacterial infection because of their resistance to antibiotics. Overuse of antibiotics has led to the development of AMR due to the mutation of genes, the formation of biofilm, and the modification of enzymes. This alarming situation has caused the creation of new alternative antibacterial materials, such as nanoparticles. Nanoparticles are emerging as a promising solution due to multiple and unique mechanisms of action to prevent bacteria from developing resistance and help to control the worldwide problem of bacterial resistance. Metal nanoparticles such as silver, gold, zinc, and titanium oxide have been synthesized by chemical, physical, and biological methods, and they have strong antibacterial properties. Mechanisms of nanoparticles include disruption of cell membrane integrity, DNA damage, destruction of biofilm production, and enzyme denaturation. They attach to DNA, inhibiting replication and transcription. But the usage of nanoparticles also exhibits toxicity. They harm the beneficial bacteria, accumulate in the body, cause organ damage, and develop neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. Further research is needed in the future to develop a more potent antimicrobial agent that has the potential to hinder the spread of antibiotic resistance against bacteria.

Keywords: Alternatives, Bacteria, Chemical Drugs, Control, Nanoparticles, Viruses