Chapter 7 - Quantum dots as antibacterial agents

Abstract

Human life and health are in jeopardy because of the rise in antimicrobial resistance. There is a pressing need for the development of novel antibacterial compounds to combat antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. To achieve this, carbon quantum dots have been enlisted for use. An essential characteristic of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) is their antimicrobial activity. In particular, the use of the photodynamic treatment concept is investigated to better understand the physical and antibacterial characteristics of carbon quantum dots as well as their capacity to generate reactive oxygen species in specific situations. In contrast to traditional antibiotics, CQDs not only exhibit strong structural stability but also possess photoluminescence characteristics for imaging and photodynamic treatment. The primary antibacterial actions of CQDs are linked to the production of free radicals, disruption of cell walls and membranes, and gene expression arrest. QDs are able to perform antibacterial roles in bacteria and fungi that are resistant to various drugs because they operate through different pathways to standard antibiotics. Because of the comparatively low toxicity of CQDs toward animal cells, they have a wide range of applications in antimicrobial research and can serve as a viable alternative to more conventional antibiotics. Numerous studies on the antibacterial activity of CQDs is covered in this chapter, and their mode of action can be considered to improve their use as an antimicrobial agent.