New antimicrobial surfaces based on silica mesoporus nanoparticles functionalized with bioactive compounds

These nanoparticles (SMIN) containing metallic copper (Cu) within their structure, are modified with the addition ofbioactive compounds of biological origin. These compounds include essential oils (EO) andantimicrobial peptides (AMP), synergistically enhancing with Cu to improve the overallantibacterial and antiviral efficiency of the materials. The functionalization of EOs into theporous substrate enables controlled release of the bioactive compound, regulated byvariations in pH or temperature. Additionally, AMPs and Cu, known for well-documentedantimicrobial properties, ensures long-term action. Upon contact with bacteria, Cu ionsare released, interfering with various cellular processes essential for microbial survival,including cellular metabolism and DNA synthesis. This synergic action results in growthinhibition or bacterial death. Regarding the viruses, Cu ion binding and cross-linkingbetween the genome strands lead to the damage of viral genomes. Moreover, Cu toxicityfrom generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), represent another mechanism fordestroying viruses. Therefore, the effective viral inactivation occursthrough the combinedaction of Cu ion attack and ROS generation.