Assessment of antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects of zinc ferrite nanoparticles against Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Abstract

In response to theemergence of drug resistance and limited therapeutic options, researchers are in action to look for more effective and sustainable antimicrobial practices. Over few years, novel nanoparticles are proving to be potent and promising for effectively dealing with ever- evolving microbial pathogens and diseases. In thepresent investigation, antibacterial and anti-biofilm efficiencies of zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZnFe2O4 NPs) are explored against opportunistic pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae). Results of the present study demonstrate that the ZnFe2O4 NPs endow an excellent antibacterial efficiency with amaximum zone of inhibition i.e.16mm. The reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced bacterial damage is caused by theZnFe2O4 NPs. Subsequently, intracellular cytoplasmic leakage of sugar and protein confirms their ability to disturb the membrane integrity of bacteria. This study also demonstrates the prominent efficiency of ZnFe2O4 NPs in ananti-biofilm study by inhibiting biofilm formation up to 81.76% and reducing mature biofilm up to 56.22% at 75μg/mL the minimum inhibitory concentration value. Therapeutic possibilities of theZnFe2O4 NPs in antimicrobial applications are discussed which are helpful to overcome the challenges associated with biofilm infectivity.