Combating Antimicrobial Resistance With Nanotechnology Developing New Antimicrobial Agents And Coatings

Abstract

Purpose: The study explores the role of Nanotechnology, regarding antimicrobial treatment and coatings in combating AMR. The problem is compounded by the declining efficacy of conventional antibiotics because pathogens are increasingly developing immunity to antibacterial drugs. In this study, we assess the effectiveness of some nanotechnology-powered solutions and review public sentiment surrounding their incorporation into healthcare.

Objective: We aimed to review the performance of nanoparticles for antimicrobial nanotechnology applications, highlight public views on healthcare uses of nanoparticulate-based delivery systems and outline some key scientific, social and ethical challenges together with opportunities presented by these innovations in combating AMR.

Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted on 210 respondents of different professions and educational levels. Statistical analysis the study used several statistical tests to identify apparent factors that influence public support for nanotechnology, including the Chi-Square Test of Independence, ANOVA Analysis and Correlation Analysis in addition to Logistic Regression as well as Factorial Mapping. During the laboratory phase, antimicrobial coatings of silver nanoparticles, copper oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles TiO2-NP were manufactured on diverse types of surfaces. Graphical representations, including bar graphs and error bars, were used extensively to illustrate the statistical results and provide visual clarity. Results: The Chi-Square Test of Independence indicated no significant association between professional background and support for nanotechnology (χ² = 16.071, df = 20, p = 0.712). ANOVA revealed a significant difference in the perceived effectiveness of nanotechnology across education levels (F (2.867) = 2.867, p = 0.024). Correlation Analysis demonstrated a very weak and non-significant relationship between the perceived criticality of AMR and the perceived effectiveness of nanotechnology (r = 0.058, p = 0.400). Logistic Regression showed that awareness of nanotechnology, education level, and familiarity with AMR did not significantly predict support for nanotechnology (p > 0.05). Factor Analysis identified two significant underlying factors (eigenvalues: 2.34 and 1.87) related to public concerns about nanotechnology, though further interpretation is required. Laboratory results showed that coatings containing silver nanoparticles reduced bacterial growth by over 99% after 24 hours. Graphical representations, including bar graphs with reference lines and error bars, effectively highlighted these statistical findings, providing clear visual support for the data.

Practical Implications: These results show that whilst public support for nanotechnology does not vary substantially by gender, education or field of profession further targeted educational efforts could potentially improve overall understanding and acceptance, particularly in the context of AMR. Such coatings could help reduce dependence on a library of canonical antibiotics and curb the advancement of AMR.

Novelty: This study is the first of its kind in examining public opinion combined with laboratory testing of antimicrobial nanocoating, addressing both societal and technological dimensions of nanotechnology in healthcare. The combination of statistical and graphical analysis received here has been adding value to the findings, alluding to them as stronger evidence for a proposition in current policymaking as well as future research.

Conclusion: The coatings based on nanotechnology as antimicrobial agents exhibit significant potential in inhibiting bacterial causes of infections and serve the need to prevent AMR. But more needs to be done about the human factors related to challenges of safety, public perception and clinical translation. Formulation optimization, biocompatibility and clinical trials of large samples should be the research focus in future. Multidisciplinary collaboration, upfront public engagement and cross-cutting nanotechnology strategies are important for effective integration of the field into global healthcare practices.