A novel nanohybrid antimicrobial based on chitosan nanoparticles and antimicrobial peptide microcin J25 with low toxicity

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is a critical public health concern. Alternatives of antibiotics are needed urgently. Herein, we designed and engineered a new nano-antimicrobial, chitosan nanoparticles (CNs)-antimicrobial peptide microcin J25 (MccJ25) conjugates (CNMs). The engineered CNMs proved to be highly active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, and the activity of CNMs and CNs was stable in various thermal and pH environments. Escherichia coli K88 strain treated with CNMs did not acquire resistance in serial passage assays over a period of 18 days. Risk assessment with cell lines showed that CNMs did not cause toxicity. Additionally, CNMs did not reduce the lifespan of C. elegans. In summary, this study demonstrated that CNMs can serve as an excellent novel antimicrobial agent against multi-drug resistance pathogens.

Automated summary

The engineered chitosan nanoparticles-antimicrobial peptide microcin J25 conjugates showed high activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, with stability in various thermal and pH environments. Resistance was not acquired by Escherichia coli treated with the conjugates over an 18-day period, and no toxicity was observed in cell lines. This study demonstrated the potential of the conjugates as a novel antimicrobial agent against multi-drug resistant pathogens.