Antimicrobial nanoparticles: a new horizon to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria

Antimicrobial nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit revolutionary potential against infections due to their unique physicochemical properties that enhance antimicrobial activity. Antimicrobial NPs employ various mechanisms and pathways, including ROS generation, cell membrane disruption, DNA and protein damage, interference with metabolic pathways, and the electron transport chain, that eventually lead to microbial cell death. They are more beneficial than conventional antibiotics and have broad-spectrum efficacy with lower risk of resistance. Specifically, antibacterial NPs have a wide range of applications in various fields, such as food safety (e.g., antimicrobial packaging), water purification, healthcare (e.g., wound healing, coatings on medical devices), agriculture (e.g., disease management, plant protection), and industrial products (e.g., textiles, personal care items). Despite their promising potential, challenges such as toxicity, environmental impact, and regulatory limitations remain critical for their sustainable use. This review aims to provide the critical insight into various antibacterial NPs applications, mechanisms of action, and future scope, highlighting their potential prospects for safe and optimal use.