Synthesis Pathway and Powerful Antimicrobial Properties of Silver Nanoparticle: A Critical Review

Abstract

One of the most useful applications of silver nanoparticles (Ag-np) is an antimicrobial agent that can have inhibitory effects against microbial pathogens. This paper reviews the detail of physical, chemical and green chemistry methods for synthesis of Ag-np and also its mechanism as antibacterial to inhibit many microbial pathogens. The main steps in preparation of Ag-np via chemical and green chemistry methods are the choice of the solvent medium, reducing agent and stabilizing or capping agent. The physical method needs physical or mechanical energy to achieve nano-size material. Green chemistry is the most promising method to be developed due to its simplicity and environmentally benign. As an antibacterial agent, effects of Ag-np toxicity are influenced by both of Ag-np and the silver ions which released during contact with water or tissue fluid. Both of those silver species can penetrate into the cytoplasm, DNA or ribosomes. The inactivation process of enzyme-membranes like phosphomannose isomerase caused denaturation of the bacterial cell.