Nanoparticles-Bacteria Interaction: An Investigation of Superficial Interaction and Internalization Through Synchrotron Techniques.

• Grant number: 21/11858-2
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Effective date (Start): March 01, 2022
• Effective date (End): February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal researcher: Mateus Borba Cardoso
• Grantee: Clara Lana Bispo Fidelis
• Home Institution: Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais (CNPEM). Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovações (Brasil). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 15/25406-5 - Organizing matter: colloids formed by association of surfactants, polymers and nanoparticles, AP.TEM

Abstract

Nowadays the worldwide society faces the Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) consequences, such as increase of mortality. Therefore, new approaches to fight bacteria, especially superbugs, are urgently needed. In this context, the use of nanobiotechnology has been increasingly explored, due to the possibility of creating multifunctional systems for selective targeting and/or delivery of molecules and drugs. Nevertheless, there is an enormous knowledge gap regarding the mechanisms of interaction between nanoparticles and bacteria due to the limitations of characterization techniques capable of in depth exploring the nano-bio interface. Hence, the present research proposal aims to elucidate the surface interaction mechanisms and internalization of nanoparticles and bacteria by the synchrotron nano-FTIR (Fourier transform infrared nanospectroscopy) and CDI (coherent diffraction imaging) techniques available in new 4th generation particle accelerator, Sirius. Through the nano-FTIR technique, we intend to analyze the superficial interaction between nanomaterials and microorganisms, while using CDI technique we will track, in three dimensions, the nanoparticle inside bacterium. This study will be carried out with model silica nanoparticles functionalized with different carbohydrates, which are able to target Escherichia coli and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Furthermore, this work could unravel the bactericidal mechanisms induced by the nanoparticle-bacteria interaction and, therefore, contribute with the scientific development to fight AMR.