Comparative genomic effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles and nisin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles on Escherichia coli

The global rise in antibiotic-resistant infections has created an urgent demand for innovative and potent antimicrobial therapies. Antimicrobial peptides such as nisin, alongside metal-based nanostructures like zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), exhibit notable antibacterial efficacy. In this study, we conducted a comparative assessment of the genomic effects of ZnO NPs and nisin-conjugated zinc oxide nanoparticles (Nisin–ZnO NPs) on Escherichia coli. E. coli cultures were treated with ZnO NPs, nisin, and Nisin–ZnO NPs at concentrations of 25, 50, 100, and 150 μ g/mL. Bacterial growth was monitored spectrophotometrically at 600 nm after 2, 4, 6, 8, and 24 h. Genomic DNA was extracted from control and treated groups, and genomic alterations were evaluated using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA–Polymerase Chain Reaction (RAPD–PCR). The data were analyzed with NTSYS–PC software based on the Dice similarity coefficient. Overall, ZnO NPs and Nisin–ZnO NPs at 150 μ g/mL demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity and effectively inhibited E. coli growth at 2 and 24 h post-treatment, whereas nisin alone exhibited negligible antibacterial activity. RAPD–PCR analysis showed that Nisin–ZnO NPs induced fewer genomic alterations compared with ZnO NPs, suggesting that Nisin–ZnO NPs enhance antibacterial efficacy while minimizing genotoxicity, supporting their promise as an effective antimicrobial strategy with a favorable safety profile. • Genomic effects of ZnO NPs and Nisin–ZnO NPs were studied in E. coli. • Nisin–ZnO NPs displayed stronger antibacterial activity than ZnO NPs. • RAPD–PCR showed fewer genomic alterations with Nisin–ZnO NP treatment. • Conjugation improved efficacy while reducing bacterial genotoxicity. • Nisin–ZnO NPs offer a safe and effective antimicrobial therapeutic option.