Publications

Silver nanoparticle enhanced silver ion stress response in Escherichia coli K12

This study investigated the dissolution-based toxicity mechanism for silver nanoparticles to Escherichia coli K12. The silver nanoparticles, synthesised in the vapour phase, are effective anti-bacterial agents against the Gram-negative bacterium, E. coli K12. The nanoparticles associate with the bacterial cell wall, appearing to interact with the outer and inner membranes, and then dissolve to release Ag+ into the cell and affect a transcriptional response. The dissolution of these nanoparticles in a modified LB medium was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and has been shown to follow a simple first-order dissolution process proportional to the decreasing surface area of the nanoparticles.

Further information can be obtained from InformaHealthcare or by contacting the authors via the NMS helpdesk at LGC.