Exploring the Potential Characteristics of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: A Review

Abstract

Metal nanoparticles have been a topic of interest between research scholars for decades now. Since these nanoparticles show tremendous effects against bacterial invasion in the body they are widely in demand. ZnO nanoparticles have emerged as one of the most promising candidates for preventing bacterial invasions within the human body. Owing to their small particulate size and increased surface area, they exhibit excellent antimicrobial characteristics. A number of pathogens have the ability to form biofilms which further increases bacterial activity. Biofilms are complex and resilient bacterial communities that adhere to surfaces and are encased in a protective extracellular matrix. They offer enhanced resistance to antibiotics and the host immune system on bacteria. ZnO nanoparticles have demonstrated excellent antibiofilm properties, making them promising candidates for the treatment of biofilmrelated infections. ZnO nanoparticles have also shown remarkable anti-microbial activity against a wide variety of pathogens. ZnO nanoparticles release zinc ions (Zn2+) when exposed to bacteria which helps in degrading the cellular membrane thus disrupting the bacterial integrity. This review article aims to understand the different aspects of Zinc NPs. Thirteen relevant studies were included, focusing on three distinct preparation methods: polyol synthesis, green synthesis, and precipitation. Each of these methods provides useful insights into the efficient development of ZnO nanoparticles, ensuring their optimal performance and applicability in a variety of scenarios. It also focuses on exploring the antibacterial activity as well as the antibiofilm activity of ZnO.