Chapter 7 - Antimicrobial activities of nanomaterials

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization, infectious diseases produced by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites cause millions of deaths globally. Existing therapies are insufficient to combat these diseases, and their long-term usage has resulted in the emergence of drug-resistant forms that are even more difficult to control. As a result, the demand for a different strategy is increasing. As an alternative to antibiotics, nanoparticles (NPs) and or nanomaterials (NMs) are increasingly employed to target microbes such as bacteria, etc. Nanotechnology has the potential to be particularly beneficial in the treatment of bacterial infections. Nanostructured particle compositions are opening up new avenues for more effectively combating infectious illnesses. The increased surface area of nanoscale materials boosts their chemical reactivity and mobility. Some NPs are employed as antibacterial and antifungal treatments due to their improved reactivity and appropriate small size. These qualities are used in various applications, including food packaging and wound dressing. The activity of NMs employed as antimicrobials and their mechanism and application are discussed in this chapter