The Potential Application of Nanoparticles on Grains during Storage: Part 2 – An Overview of Inhibition against Fungi and Mycotoxin Biosynthesis

Abstract

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites synthesized by filamentous fungi. They are common food contaminants that cause mycotoxicosis in humans and animals. Due to the severity of health risk pose by these mycotoxins, many countries have enacted strict measures to curb this menace. One promising measure is the use of nanoparticles. Herein, we present an overview of the application of titanium dioxide, chitosan, ultradisperse humic sapropel suspension, and carbon-based nanoparticles, a novel and innovative method of reducing mycotoxin production and the subsequent contamination of grains. All nanoparticles considered enhanced cell permeability by disrupting the membrane, resulting in the outflow of cellular materials. However, concentration, volume, type, and illumination (sunlight) influenced the fungicidal potential of NPs.

Antibacterial Activity of Visible Light Responsive‐Silver‐Nanoparticle/Titania Composite Thin Films with Unprecedently Higher Amounts of Silver

“…[ 15,16 ] In another study, the Ag‐NPs/TiO 2 composites were found to exhibit antibacterial properties by reducing enzyme activity, releasing silver ions, and altering the production of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen (NADPH). [ 17 ] Bactericidal activities were found to be caused by adsorption and penetration of Ag nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) and toxicity caused by electrostatic interactions. [ 18 ] When nanoparticles are used, they could damage the membrane, create ROS, and change how well the cell wall lets water in.…”

“…This is contrary to what is typically observed reported in literature. [ 17–23,37–41 ] This occurs because the metallic silver, which is essential for the recombination of electron–hole pairs on the surface of titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ), rapidly transforms into silver ions when exposed to aqueous solutions under aerobic circumstances. [ 42,43 ] However, this is not the case for the composite thin films of silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NP) and TiO 2 synthesized using the MPM.…”