<p>Relationship Between Structure And Antimicrobial Activity Of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: An Overview</p>

Abstract

The inappropriate use of antimicrobials has resulted in the selection of resistant strains. Thus, a great number of studies have focused on the investigation of new antimicrobial agents. The use of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to optimise the fight against microbial resistance has been receiving increased attention due to the non-specific activity of inorganic antimicrobial agents. The small particle size and the high surface area of ZnO NPs can enhance antimicrobial activity, causing an improvement in surface reactivity. In addition, surface modifiers covering ZnO NPs can play a role in mediating antimicrobial activity since the surface properties of nanomaterials alter their interactions with cells; this may interfere with the antimicrobial effect of ZnO NPs. The possibility of using surface modifiers with groups toxic to microorganisms can improve the antimicrobial activity of ZnO NPs. Understanding the exact toxicity mechanisms is crucial to elucidating the antimicrobial activity of ZnO NPs in bacteria and fungi. Therefore, this review aims to describe the mechanisms of ZnO NPs toxicity against fungi and bacteria and how the different structural and physical-chemical characteristics of ZnO NPs can interfere in their antimicrobial activity.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Induce an Adverse Effect on Blood Glucose Levels Depending On the Dose and Route of Administration in Healthy and Diabetic Rats

“…In the biomedical field, ZnONPs have been used for development of biosensors for a wide variety of molecules of interest, to improve diagnosis through imaging, controlled drug release, gene delivery and as therapeutic agents [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 ]. There is promising scientific evidence for the treatment of diseases with a high worldwide prevalence where several studies evaluated the anticancer, antidiabetic and antimicrobial activity of ZnONPs [ 7 , 8 , 9 ]. The whole potential of the application of these nanoparticles for the benefit of humans, demands studies and a detailed understanding of all their possible toxic or adverse effects on human health and the environment.…”

Polymeric Nanoparticle Associated with Ceftriaxone and Extract of Schinopsis Brasiliensis Engler against Multiresistant Enterobacteria

“…When the systems are in nanometric size and the surface charges are adequate, they promote an increase in the interaction and concentration of the active in the target site, protecting the API from enzymatic degradation, in addition to improving their penetration into the mucosal epithelium, modulating the pharmacokinetics of API and thus improving their effectiveness and reducing toxicity [21][22][23][24][25][26][27].…”

Zinc(II) Complexes of Amino Acids as New Active Ingredients for Anti-Acne Dermatological Preparations

“…The mechanisms of action for ZnO NPs include: direct contact killing, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Zn 2+ ions release. These effects can lead to the destruction of the bacterial membrane, disturbance of the respiration process of the cell, enzyme denaturation, and the inhibition of DNA replication, causing leakage of the cell content and its death [38,39]. The antibacterial mechanism for the majority of zinc derivatives seems to be dependent on the level of Zn(II) ions released.…”