Antibacterial activity of engineered nanoparticles against fish pathogens

Abstract

Aquaculture through fish farming is a growing industry which contributes significantly to food security as a source of food and nutrients. However, it faces challenges due to bacterial pathogens and antimicrobial resistance, which negatively impacts the industry, food security and public health. Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) offer a novel and innovative alternative to existing antibacterial agents due to their small size, tunable properties, and multiple mechanisms of activity against microbes. ENPs thus provide fresh approaches for controlling fish pathogenic bacteria and managing bacterial diseases in farmed fish. In this review, metallic and non-metallic ENPs, with antibacterial activity against fish pathogenic bacteria are explored. Their mechanism of action and efficacy are discussed, together with the opportunities and challenges associated with their use in infection control and management in fish farms. This information is important for the development of sustainable solutions towards alleviating disease outbreaks originating from fish pathogenic bacteria and for promoting fish health.