New Perspectives of Using Chitosan, Silver, and Chitosan-Silver Nanoparticles against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria

Nanomaterials with antimicrobial activity are promising alternatives to overcome microbial resistance in medical devices. Catheters, probes, and wound dressings are among the medical devices mostly affected by microbial contamination and the formation of polymicrobial biofilms. Nanoparticles (NPs) derived from natural sources, such as chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs), and metal-based nanoparticles, including silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), are receiving increased interest in nanomedicine. CsNPs have been widely explored as a coating material and antimicrobial agent. AgNPs have a strong antimicrobial effect against bacteria and fungi. The nanocomposite chitosan-silver nanoparticles (Cs-AgNPs) can be more effective against several microorganisms, including multidrug-resistant bacteria, due to the synergistic effect between chitosan and silver. This review addresses the most used synthesis methods, including green routes, to produce CsNPs, AgNPs, and Cs-AgNPs. It also discusses physicochemical characteristics and antimicrobial properties of these NPs in medical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological areas.

Automated summary

Nanomaterials with antimicrobial activity, such as CsNPs and AgNPs, have shown great potential in overcoming microbial resistance in medical devices. The synergistic effect between chitosan and silver in Cs-AgNPs makes them more effective against various microorganisms, including multidrug-resistant bacteria. Various synthesis methods and physicochemical characteristics of these nanoparticles are discussed in this review, highlighting their antimicrobial properties in medical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological applications.