Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm and Antiurease Activities of Microbially Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles against Proteus mirabilis

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) are tiny materials ranging in size from 1 to 100 nm and have unique magnetic, electrical, and optical characteristics differing from bulk materials. They have a broad spectrum of applications in different industries. Several physical and chemical techniques have been applied to produce metal NPs. Alternatively, green synthesis offers an environmentally friendly and simple means for NP preparation. In the present study, silver NPs were produced by the Pseudomonas aeruginosa OG1 strain. Characterization of NPs was performed by TEM, SEM, and XRD. These NPs were used against pathogenic Proteus mirabilis, which shows high-level urease activity and forms clear biofilms. Silver NPs obtained in the present study were applied to inhibit the growth, urease production, and biofilm formation of P. mirabilis. Growth inhibition zones of 9 mm and 11 mm and, 60 % and 85% antibiofilm effects were obtained by 100 µg mL-1 and 200 µg mL-1 NPs, respectively. The urease activity of P. mirabilis was completely inhibited in both concentrations. These results show that AgNPs can be used as effective antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antiurease agents in the fight against pathogens.