ZnO nanocluster loaded superparamagnetic iron oxide nanocomposites as recyclable antibacterial agent

The accelerated microbial resistance evoked by the misuse and improper disposal of antibiotics has posed severe thereat to the public health. Despite considerable efforts on antimicrobial materials development, it is demanding to search for safe and effective antibacterial agents capable of minimizing resistance risks. Here, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) integrated superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO/ZnO NPs) as recyclable bactericide was formed through the one-pot synthesis strategy. The obtained SPIO/ZnO NPs of desirable biocompatibility efficiently inhibit S. aureus and E. coli growth, of which the bactericidal activities were retained for four cycles of repeated use. Furthermore, the mechanistic studies of antibiosis revealed the damaging role of the nanocomposite to the bacteria cells through a tight attachment on the cell membrane, followed by the regulated release of Zn2+ from the composites. The produced recyclable SPIO/ZnO NPs of negligible development of bacterial resistance hold potentials for practical applications. A new type of ZnO nanoclusters loaded superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO/ZnO NPs) of both magnetic properties and good antibacterial effect as recyclable nanobactericide is used for antibacterial test towards water samples, which induces negligible development of bacterial resistance. [Display omitted] •ZnO integrated superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO/ZnO) nanoparticles as recyclable bactericide are formed.•SPIO/ZnO nanoparticles of desirable biocompatibility inhibit the S. aureus and E. coli growth.•The recyclable SPIO/ZnO nanoparticles cause negligible development of bacterial resistance.