Lipopolysaccharide targeting-peptide-capped chitosan gold nanoparticles for laser-induced antibacterial activity

<b>Aim:</b> We present the synthesis of anti-bacterial gold nanoparticles using chitosan as a dual-functional agent. The resulting ChAuNPs were further modified with a lipopolysaccharide-targeting antibacterial peptide to aid in biocompatibility and specificity. <b>Materials &amp; methods:</b> The nanoparticles' antibacterial activity against <i>Escherichia coli</i> was tested in the presence of a 450 nm laser. <b>Results:</b> Our data suggested that the peptide and laser emissions had a synergistic impact on the gold nanoparticles, resulting in strong antibacterial effects. The study shows that advanced nanomaterials, including chitosan, gold nanoparticles and lipopolysaccharide targeting peptides, can boost antibacterial functions at a low concentration of 250 μg/ml. <b>Conclusion:</b> The findings highlight ChAuNPs' potential as strong antibacterial agents, with targeted alterations critical for maximizing their utilization. Use of chitosan as a dual-functional i.e. reducing and stabilizing agent for synthesizing the gold nanoparticles. Lipopolysaccharide-targeting antibacterial peptide decorated chitosan-coated gold nanoparticles (ChAuNPs) with improved biocompatibility and specificity. Advanced nanomaterials featuring chitosan, gold nanoparticles and lipopolysaccharide-targeting peptides were developed. The antibacterial effectiveness of the nanoparticles was tested against <i>E. coli</i> with 450 nm laser exposure. The study showed significant antimicrobial effects due to the combined action of the peptide and laser. The results highlight the potential of ChAuNPs as potent antibacterial and ROS producing agents due to its tailored modifications. The nanomaterials demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial properties at a low concentration of 250 μg/ml. The study contributes to advanced nanomaterials for antimicrobial applications, emphasizing the potential of LPS targeting ChAuNPs in fighting bacterial infections.