A decade ago, in 2013, my journey into the captivating realm of nanotechnology began, and my inaugural project involved the innovative design of nanoparticles tailored to function as potent disinfectant solutions. This venture opened my eyes to the immense potential of nanotechnology in the realm of antimicrobial applications. Over the course of an exhilarating four-year period, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to pioneering advancements in antimicrobial nanoparticles, seamlessly integrating them into diverse formulations. The experience has been nothing short of transformative, propelling me into the cutting-edge frontier of nanotech-driven solutions for combatting microbial threats. Here a few highlights of my projects
Antimicrobial nanoparticles for hospital acquired infections
In one project that is published in applied surface science I worked and method for silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) synthesis using Heliotropium crispum (HC). Optimization of physicochemical parameters resulted in stable and rapidly assembled AgNPs. Presence of plant phytochemicals helped in the reduction, stabilization and capping of AgNPs. The presence of uniquely assembled Ag-biomolecule composites, capped and stabilized nanoparticles in aqueous suspension. Spherical, uniform-shaped AgNPs with low poly-dispersion and average particle size was determined through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning election microscopy (SEM) which present robust interaction with microbes. The study also evaluated the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties of biologically synthesized AgNPs on clinical isolates of MRSA, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. Minimum inhibitory concentration of nanoparticles that presented bactericidal effect was made through inhibition assays on bacterial strains. The concentration which presented potent bactericidal response was then evaluated through growth inhibition in liquid medium for anti-biofilm studies. HC-Ag nanoparticles mediated anti-biofilm effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa was revealed through SEM. Complete breakdown of biofilm’s extracellular polymeric substances resulted after incubation with AgNPs. Peptidoglycan cell wall destruction was also revealed on planktonic bacterial images after 24 h of incubation.
This study demonstrated the use of Heliotropium crispum as an efficient biomaterial for AgNPs synthesis and was found to be the most important parameter which directly affects nanoparticle composition by controlling size, shape and stability. Presence of phytochemicals and functional groups can present unique optical and pharmacophore properties to bioengineered nanoparticles as exhibited by fluorescence potential and antibiofilm responses of HC-AgNPs. All clinical isolates of bacterial pathogen tested against HC-AgNPs were found to be susceptible suggesting an efficient use of Ag nanocomposites to address emerging issue of multiple drug resistance in bacterial strains. Finally the results imply that AgNPs spherical morphology present potent bactericidal response through cell wall destruction. The HC-AgNPs loaded products can control multiple drug resistant pathogen spread in future.
Analysis of untreated and AgNPs treated bacterial cell images at 24 h through EDS and J-model interactive 3D analysis plot. (a,b) SEM images of destroyed cell wall capsule and distorted morphology following treatment (c) EDS graph (d) SEM of bacterial cells subjected to interactive 3D J-model analysis to study morphology of (i) untreated bacteria (ii) AgNPs treated bacteria. (iii) Bacteria in untreated sample depicts smooth morphology. (iv) AgNPs mediated destruction of bacterial wall exhibits irregular morphology in 3D plot.
Formulation of active packaging system for enhancing shelf life of fresh fruits
A cutting-edge active packaging system has emerged to revolutionize the preservation of fresh fruits, introducing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) hand-in-hand with calcium alginate (Ca-ALG). In this groundbreaking venture, published in Materials science and engineering C, AgNPs were synthesized using aqueous, ethanol, and methanol extracts of Artemisia scoparia (AS), unveiling their secrets through UV–Vis, SEM, EDS, AFM, FTIR, and gel electrophoresis. The ethanol extract of AS (ASE) stole the spotlight, producing AgNPs with the smallest size, ranging from 12.0 to 23.3 nm. Fear not, for these tiny heroes were tested on Human Corneal Epithelial Cells, revealing no toxicity.
Quality decay based on sensory evaluation in fresh fruits over storage time in strawberries
The real magic happened when AgNPs joined forces with a delectable edible coating of Ca-ALG, creating a dynamic duo. This superhero combo was applied to strawberries and loquats, infusing them with an invisible shield to defy decay. The results were nothing short of spectacular: microbial analysis, acidity retention, soluble solid content, weight preservation, and overall quality flourished. The Ca-ALG coating, supercharged with the mighty AgNPs, emerged victorious in extending the shelf life of strawberries and loquats, outshining both untreated and simple Ca-ALG coated counterparts. This study isn’t just science; it’s a game-changer for the food industry, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the future of fresh fruit preservation with AgNP-formulated coatings.
Have additional questions?
I’m here to help. Let’s talk.