Ferromagnetic nanoparticles with peroxidase-like activity enhance the cleavage of biological macromolecules for biofilm elimination

Abstract

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a “green chemical” that has various cleaning and disinfectant uses, including as an anti-bacterial agent for hygienic and medical treatments. However, its efficacy is limited against biofilm-producing bacteria, because of poor penetration into the protective, organic matrix. Here we show new applications for ferromagnetic nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄, MNPs) with peroxidase-like activity in potentiating the efficacy of H₂O₂ in biofilm degradation and prevention. Our data show that MNPs enhanced oxidative cleavage of biofilm components (model nucleic acids, proteins, and oligosaccharides) in the presence of H₂O₂. When challenged with live, biofilm-producing bacteria, the MNP–H₂O₂ system efficiently broke down the existing biofilm and prevented new biofilms from forming, killing both planktonic bacteria and those within the biofilm. By enhancing oxidative cleavage of various substrates, the MNP–H₂O₂ system provides a novel strategy for biofilm elimination, and other applications utilizing oxidative breakdown.