Optimized silver nanostructures for enhanced antibacterial potential: Recent trends and challenges in the development of metallo-antimicrobials

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are effective antibacterial agents that can fight even drug-resistant bacteria. Their unique size, shape, and surface properties allow them to kill bacteria more effectively than traditional antibiotics. This review examines recent progress in optimizing AgNPs for better antibacterial performance. We explore different synthesis methods and how they affect the nanoparticle properties and antimicrobial abilities. Carefully controlling the nanoparticle size and structure is key to maximizing their antibacterial effects. The review also discusses combining AgNPs with conventional antibiotics to tackle bacterial biofilms and drug resistance. However, challenges must be addressed before AgNPs can be widely used in clinical settings. These include scaling production, ensuring environmental sustainability, and meeting regulatory requirements. Further research is needed to overcome these barriers and fully realize the promising applications of AgNPs. Overall, this review highlights the exciting potential of AgNPs as next-generation antibacterial agents and outlines important future research directions.