Toxicological Effect of ZnO Nanoparticles Based on Bacteria

Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus are two pathogenetic agents of several infective diseases in humans. Biocidal effects and cellular internalization of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) on two bacteria are reported, and ZnO NPs have a good bacteriostasis effect. ZnO NPs were synthesized in the EG aqueous system through the hydrolysis of ionic Zn2+ salts. Particle size and shape were controlled by the addition of the various surfactants. Bactericidal tests were performed in an ordinary broth medium on solid agar plates and in liquid systems with different concentrations of ZnO NPs. The biocidal action of ZnO materials was studied by transmission electron microscopy of bacteria ultrathin sections. The results confirmed that bactericidal cells were damaged after ZnO NPs contacted with them, showing both gram-negative membrane and gram-positive membrane disorganization. The surface modification of ZnO NPs causes an increase in membrane permeability and the cellular internalization of these NPs whereas there is a ZnO NP structure change inside the cells.