Bactericidal action of Ag(0)-antithrombotic sulfated arabinogalactan nanocomposite: coevolution of initial nanocomposite and living microbial cell to a novel nonliving nanocomposite.

Unlabelled: The first step of the interaction between Ag(0) nanocomposite with antiatherogenic anticoagulant sulfated arabinogalactan involves the transportation and concentration of antimicrobial nanosilver in the bacteria target (E. coli). Further, the silver ions in dynamic equilibrium with metal backbone of the nanoparticles (NPs) reach the membrane surface and bond with this surface. Simultaneously, the redox interaction of silver cations with main reducing components of the membrane surface is triggered to afford the zero-valence silver atoms that are stabilized to form metal clusters, or new NPs of silver. Size and morphology of these NPs are defined by specific conditions of their synthesis involving the microorganism membrane: The Ag(0) NPs formed on membranes and fragments of the destroyed bacteria have other morphology (including triangular) and smaller sizes in comparison with the initial nanocomposite that additionally enhances antimicrobial activity of such NPs.

From The Clinical Editor: This study investigates silver nanocompistes (Ag(0) NPs) and their interaction with antiatherogenic anticoagulant sulfated arabinogalactan. A complex set of interactions are described, leading to Ag(0)NPs formed on membranes and fragments of destroyed bacteria demonstrating altered morphology and smaller sizes in comparison with the initial nanocomposite that additionally enhances antimicrobial activity of such NPs.