Relative graphene materials (RGMs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs): A review from fundamental antibacterial issues to current cytotoxicity and biosafety

Abstract

Silver@relative graphene materials (Ag@RGMs) have engrossed immense interest as a superior antibacterial therapeutic agent owing to the inherent bacteriostatic effect from silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and the reinforcement of the graphene or its derivatives such as graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), etc. supplying the barrier encapsulation for the effort of the cell absorption. Herein, this review predominantly elucidated and comprehensively performed from individual fundamental bactericidal mechanisms of each component to totals in cases of composite. Moreover, apart from the understanding of bactericidal activity, the summaries of the cellular toxic effect and exposure pathways that threaten human health were also thoroughly discussed. Accordingly, together with an overview of the differences in the behaviors based on previously reported, it also revealed insights into the bacterial killing-induction, the toxicological possibility, and the biosafety/biocompatibility of the Ag@RGMs. As standing from these basis, the review is capable of providing the induction into upcoming studies and evolutions in the Ag@RGMs in nanomedicine and nanopharmaceuticals.