Nanosilver Inhibits E. coli
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) inhibit the respiratory chain of Escherichia coli (E. coli) by disrupting the enzymes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, which affects the transmembrane transport of electrons. This disruption leads to a decrease in the activity of respiratory chain dehydrogenases, causing damage to the bacterial cells and eventually leading to their death.
In studies, AgNPs were found to completely inhibit the growth of E. coli cells at concentrations as low as 50 mg/ml, destroying the permeability of bacterial membranes and depressing the activity of membranous enzymes.
The nanoparticles also induce the leakage of reducing sugars and proteins, further contributing to the inhibition of the respiratory chain.
These findings suggest that AgNPs are effective in inhibiting the respiratory chain of E. coli, making them a potential candidate for antibacterial treatments.
Interaction of silver(I) ions with the respiratory chain of Escherichia coli