Combat antimicrobial resistance emergence and biofilm formation through nanoscale zero-valent iron particles

Abstract

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and bacterial biofilm formation in water-related systems (e.g., drinking water distribution pipes) have been posing challenges to public health. Compared to conventional disinfection processes, nanomaterial-based approaches hold promise for mitigating AMR emergence and controlling biofilm formation. In this study, we investigated the performance and mechanisms of nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) and its derivates (carboxymethyl cellulose-nZVI, oxidized or “Aged” nZVI, and Fe3O4 nanoparticles) on preventing AMR emergence and biofilm formation. Results show that the long-term exposure to subminimum inhibitory concentrations of nanoparticles except for Fe3O4 are able to prevent AMR emergence and biofilm formation. Except for Fe3O4, other nZVI nanoparticles are also capable of eradicating pre-established biofilms. The capability of these nanoparticles against AMR and biofilm can be attributed to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species, cell membrane damage and repression of efflux pumps. Collectively, our findings suggest that nZVI nanoparticles are promising alternatives to combat bacterial AMR emergence and biofilm formation in water-related systems.