Recent Trends on Antimicrobial Properties in Material Science & Nanotechnology: An Opinion

Material science plays a very crucial role in advancing technology, manufacturing, energy, healthcare, bioimaging, and many other essential fields [1]. “Nano” indicates the range in Nano-level (i.e. 10^-9). The prefix “Nano” is taken from the Greek language, whose meaning is “extremely small” [2]. Therefore, the term “Nano material” or “Nano crystalline material” refers to a substance whose physical dimension that range is between 0.1 nm and 100 nm in scale [3,4]. Nanotechnology has been a transformative force in the development of antimicrobial materials. By manipulating matter at the nanoscale, researchers have discovered that certain nanoparticles-particularly those of silver, copper, and zinc-exhibit powerful antimicrobial properties [5]. These nanoparticles disrupt bacterial cell walls, generate reactive oxygen species, and interfere with essential microbial processes, leading to the death of bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. Sharma et al. [6] discussed that the use of nanoparticles disrupts bacterial cell walls may need to be carefully controlled. Gram negative bacteria release bacterial Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) that are toxic to the liver, heart and brain. Nanotechnology and material science may need to assess the dose of nanoparticles that do not increase plasma LPS levels [6]. With continuous research and development, these materials have the potential to transform various sectors, including environmental protection, food safety, and healthcare. Another key trend is the use of nanomaterials in wound healing and medical devices.

The growing prevalence of hospital-acquired infections, resistant bacterial strains like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic have all spotlighted the critical need for effective antimicrobial solutions. Traditionally, infection control relied heavily on antibiotics, sanitization, and surface disinfection. However, the overuse of antibiotics has accelerated the evolution of resistant strains, necessitating a shift toward novel, non-drug-based antimicrobial strategies.

Antimicrobial materials represent a key area of research, offering the potential to inhibit or kill microorganisms on contact, thereby minimizing the spread of infectious agents. These materials are increasingly being incorporated into medical devices, surgical tools, coatings for hospital surfaces, and even everyday consumer products like clothing and packaging.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained significant attention due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Studies have shown that AgNPs are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. The small size of these particles allows them to easily penetrate bacterial cell membranes, disrupting cellular functions and causing cell death [7]. Moreover, AgNPs can be incorporated into various materials, such as polymers, textiles, and coatings, making them versatile for a wide range of applications. A recent trend involves enhancing the stability and efficacy of AgNPs by incorporating them into composite materials. For instance, embedding AgNPs in a polymer matrix or coating surfaces with AgNP-infused films provides long-lasting antimicrobial protection. In hospitals, such materials can be used for touch surfaces, reducing the transmission of pathogens in critical environments.

Copper and copper oxide nanoparticles are another promising class of antimicrobial agents. Copper has been known for its antimicrobial properties for centuries, but nanotechnology has unlocked its potential at a whole new level. Copper Nanoparticles (CuNPs) release copper ions, which disrupt bacterial membranes, generate free radicals, and inhibit cellular respiration [8]. This multi-faceted mechanism makes copper-based materials particularly effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including viruses. CuNPs are increasingly being used in medical devices, wound dressings, and antimicrobial coatings. The ability to fabricate surfaces with embedded copper nanoparticles has been particularly beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic, where hightouch surfaces such as doorknobs and railings were identified as major vectors for viral transmission. The long-lasting antimicrobial action of copper-based surfaces reduces the need for frequent cleaning and disinfection.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are also emerging as a potent antimicrobial material. These nanoparticles generate reactive oxygen species under UV light, which cause oxidative stress in bacterial cells, leading to their destruction [9]. Unlike silver and copper nanoparticles, ZnO NPs have the added benefit of being less toxic to human cells, making them suitable for applications in food packaging, cosmetics, and sunscreens. A recent trend is the use of ZnO NPs in polymer composites for packaging materials, where they provide both antimicrobial activity and UV protection, enhancing the shelf-life of perishable goods. Additionally, ZnO NPs are being incorporated into wound dressings and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to prevent infections during surgery or in clinical environments.

While traditional antimicrobial materials focus on killing pathogens upon contact, recent trends in material science and nanotechnology are moving toward “smart” antimicrobial systems [6]. These systems are designed to respond dynamically to environmental triggers such as humidity, pH, or temperature, releasing antimicrobial agents only when needed. For instance, a promising avenue of research is the development of stimuliresponsive hydrogels. These hydrogels can encapsulate antimicrobial nanoparticles and release them when exposed to the acidic environment of an infection site. Such materials not only improve the targeted delivery of antimicrobial agents but also reduce the risk of developing resistance by limiting unnecessary exposure of microbes to the active agents.

Despite the promising advances in antimicrobial materials, several challenges remain. One significant concern is the potential toxicity of nanoparticles to human cells and the environment [10]. While silver, copper, and zinc nanoparticles are effective antimicrobial agents, their long-term effects on human health are not fully understood [5]. Researchers are exploring ways to mitigate these risks, such as developing biodegradable or self-degrading nanomaterials that minimize environmental impact. Another challenge is ensuring that antimicrobial materials do not contribute to the growing problem of resistance. Although nanoparticles kill bacteria through mechanisms different from antibiotics, there is still the potential for microbes to develop resistance over time. Hence, the design of these materials must account for long-term efficacy without promoting resistance.

The convergence of material science and nanotechnology has opened up new frontiers in the development of antimicrobial materials. From silver and copper nanoparticles to smart, responsive systems, the innovations in this field hold immense potential for combating the spread of infectious diseases. However, as we move forward, it is essential to balance efficacy with safety, ensuring that these technologies protect human health without unintended consequences. Antimicrobial materials represent the future of infection control. As research continues to push boundaries, the hope is that these innovations will play a key role in addressing global health challenges, particularly in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

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