Synthesis and evaluation of the antibacterial effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in comparison with ampicillin, colistin, and ertapenem on Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

Objectives: Today, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains and the acquisition of antibiotic resistance have caused many problems in the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus infection and is one of the most important health issues. At present, nanotechnology has a significant impact on the various fields including pharmacology, health, medicine, and food. This study aimed to synthesize the titanium dioxide nanoparticles (Tio2NPs) and its antibacterial effect on S. aureus compared with conventional antibiotics. Materials and Methods: In this study, Tio2NPs were tested on S. aureus compared with a number of antibiotics. First, Tio2NPs were synthesized. The shape and size of the particles as well as the synthesis quality were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), dynamic light scattering, zeta potential and X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The antimicrobial effect of Tio2NPs on S. aureus strain (ATCC 12600) was then studied by disc diffusion method. Antibiotics of ampicillin, colistin, and ertapenem were used as control group. Results: Based on the results and given that the polydispersity index of the samples was below 0.5 (0.466), the other sample was estimated at 347.9 nm. The zeta potential of Tio2 sample was estimated at −9.48 indicating the stability of the nanoparticle and its suspension in a suitable amount per unit of time in the solution. The results of the AFM showed that the lower mean value obtained for the Tio2NPs was 0.5 nm, and the growth of the nanoparticles was noticeable in some regions and uniform and low in some others. The result of SEM showed that the size of the nanoparticle was 28.45–34.14 nm. The best inhibition zone diameter was obtained for ampicillin (30.66 mm), followed by ertapenem (15 mm) and Tio2(10 mm). Colistin without inhibition zone was identified as ineffective group. Conclusion: Due to the development of drug resistance to antibiotics, the production and synthesis of antimicrobial agents is one of the requirements of the current time. Due to the excellent synthesis of Tio2 and the presence of very fine nanoparticles, it can be used as a strong antimicrobial compound, especially on S. aureus infection.