Antimicrobial noble metal-based nanomaterials

Abstract:

Noble metal-based nanomaterials (NMNs) have a broad spectrum of antibacterial properties. NMNs can inhibit bacteria by means of nano-perforation, disrupting membrane stability, stimulating the generation of reactive oxygen species, binding to biological molecules such as DNA, and releasing toxic ions. Under the selective pressure of NMNs, bacteria evolve the resistance to NMNs inhibition. The resistance of bacteria to NMNs can be exhibited through electrostatic repulsion, secreting adsorption protein, activation of antioxidant enzymes, efflux of toxic particles, and quorum sensing. Here we summarize the antibacterial properties of NMNs, discuss bacterial resistance to NMNs, and indicate the shortage of current researches on bacterial resistance to NMNs, to assist rational development and application of antimicrobial NMNs.