Interaction of Nanoparticles with Microbes

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a rising area emerged after the amalgamation of the different advanced scientific fields of physics, chemistry and biology, and it has resulted in engineering of nanoparticles (1–100 nm) and their applications. These nanoparticles have an extensive utility in electronic circuits, biochemical sensors, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, cosmetic industry, therapeutic medical science, garment, food industry, etc. The market of nanoparticles is growing substantially, and many different types of nanoparticles and nanoparticle-based products have launched in the recent past. At the same time, unprecedented increases in the usage of nanoparticles have raised concerns over their ultimate release in the ecosystem, posing serious health hazards and environmental impact. The consequences may be more pronounced because of higher surface area against the mass ratio for the nanoparticles than bulk chemistry bestowing them unique physicochemical, electrical, optical and biological properties. Interaction of nanoparticles to the microbes is, therefore, vital to interpret the influence of nanoparticles on the aquatic bodies and soil health. In this regard, it is crucial to know the stability of nanoparticles, and better to understand the interaction and resulting toxicity mechanisms of nanoparticles to the microbes. In the present chapter, we have discussed these aspects with critical insights. Further, antimicrobial and antifungal properties of the nanoparticles are elaborated with a focus on the toxicity mechanism. The impact of nanoparticles could be influenced by the concentration, size, shape, etc. The toxicity mechanisms include inactivation of enzymes because of the interaction of thiol group, oxidative stress leading to surge in reactive oxygen species, restricted nutrient availability due to the aggregation of nanoparticles on the microbial surfaces, ultrastructural membranes, subcellular organelles and DNA damage. Understanding the complex nature of the interaction between the consortium of diverse microorganisms with nanoparticles is thoroughly debated in this chapter.