Nanoparticle Approach to Control AMR

Abstract

The chapter describes the antibacterial activity of metal nanoparticles and the possibility to control the antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens. A vast application of metal nanoparticles is being practiced in engineering fields such as solar panels, gas sensors, and biosensors. But a limited application of nanoparticles is available in controlling AMR. Even though there is a considerable report on the antimicrobial activity of the AMR, the main inference in the application of nanoparticles is toxicity. Controlling pathogen by direct application on food or any environment is not permitted. Various types of metal nanoparticles and their role in the destruction of microbes and the possibility of their application to control the AMR are discussed. The application of nanoparticles is of great interest in the packaging materials for food to control the surface bacterial load, which is getting more attention due to the meager toxic effect. The addition of nanoparticles in the packaging material and cloths is based on the migration level. In addition, the antimicrobial activity can be augmented by techniques, viz., doping, capping, the addition of other nanoparticles, and surface modification with stabilizers and chemicals, producing better antimicrobial activity with a lesser toxicity. From the clinical aspect, since it has a better antioxidant activity, based on the criticality of the patient, the NP can be applied for treatments. In the case of controlling AMR in the environment, a suitable treatment method is to be designed to reduce the toxic level of the nanoparticles.