Copper Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Characterization, Physiology, Toxicity and Antimicrobial Applications

• Published in: Applied sciences Vol. 12; no. 1; p. 141
• Main Authors: Crisan, Michaela Corina, Teodora, Mocan, Lucian, Mocan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01-01-2022
• Subjects: action mechanism; antibacterial activity; Antibiotics; Antimicrobial agents; Antiviral activity; Atoms & subatomic particles; Carbon; Copper; Drinking water; Fungicides; Human body; Metabolism; Nanomaterials; Nanoparticles; physiology; Quantum dots; Spectrum analysis; Toxicity; Transmission electron microscopy
• ISSN: 2076-3417; 2076-3417
• DOI: 10.3390/app12010141

Metallic nanoparticles are a new class of materials with applications in medicine, pharmaceutical and agriculture. Using biological, chemical and physical approaches, nanoparticles with amazing properties are obtained. Copper is one of the most-found elements and plays an important part in the normal functioning of organisms. Coper nanoparticles have superior antibacterial properties when comparing them to present day antibiotics. Moreover, apart from their antibacterial role, antifungal, antiviral and anticancer properties have been described. Although the mechanism of actions is not completely understood, copper nanoparticles can become a viable alternative in fighting multi-resistant bacteria strains. We hereby review the already existing data on copper nanoparticle synthesis, effects and mechanisms of action as well as toxicity.