TiO2 photocatalysis causes DNA damage via Fenton reaction-generated hydroxyl radicals during the recovery period

Here, we show that resistance of Escherichia coli to TiO2 photocatalysis involves defenses against reactive oxygen species. Results support the idea that TiO2 photocatalysis generates damage which later becomes deleterious during recovery. We found this to be partly due to DNA attack via hydroxyl radicals generated by the Fenton reaction during recovery.