Schiff base-assisted catalytic fabrication of TiO ₂ nanoparticles for antibacterial applications against multidrug-resistant strains

ABSTRACT The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria poses a significant global health challenge, necessitating the development of novel antimicrobial agents. In this study, titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles were synthesized via a sol-gel method using Schiff base (azomethine) complexes as catalytic ligands. Structural and morphological characterization was performed using UV–visible spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, and XRD, confirming the formation of anatase-phase TiO 2 nanoparticles with average sizes around 100 nm. The incorporation of the azomethine ligand was verified by characteristic functional group shifts and spectral absorption in the UV region. Antibacterial activity was assessed against MDR strains of Escherichia coli , Staphylococcus aureus , and Klebsiella spp., using the well diffusion method. Results showed that both the azomethine compound (C2) and TiO 2 nanoparticles (NP2 and NP3) exhibited significant antibacterial effects, with NP2 demonstrating the largest zones of inhibition. MIC and MBC assays further confirmed the superior potency of NP2, showing the lowest inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations, particularly against S. aureus . These findings highlight the potential of Schiff base-modified TiO 2 nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents against resistant pathogens. The study offers a promising route toward the development of nanomaterial-based alternatives to conventional antibiotics. IMPORTANCE This study addresses the global health crisis caused by “superbugs” bacteria that have become resistant to multiple standard antibiotics. Traditional treatments are failing, creating an urgent need for new ways to fight infections. Researchers developed a novel solution by creating microscopic titanium dioxide particles enhanced with a chemical “template” called a Schiff base. The significance of this work lies in its potential to provide a powerful alternative to traditional medicine. These enhanced nanoparticles proved highly effective at killing dangerous resistant bacteria like Escherichia coli and Staph by disrupting their protective outer layers. Because they use multiple physical mechanisms to attack, it is much harder for bacteria to develop resistance to them. This research offers a promising, eco-friendly roadmap for developing next-generation antimicrobial treatments.