Antibacterial properties of cerium oxide nanoparticles: Recent progresses and future challenges

Use of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) to optimize management of resistant microorganisms has received increasing attention due to non-specific activity of inorganic antibacterial agents. Understanding the mechanism of action is essential to elucidating the antibacterial activity of CeO2 NPs against bacteria. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the antibacterial mechanisms of CeO2 NPs and correlate the structural and physicochemical properties of CeO2 NPs to their antibacterial activity. We further summarize the strategies for the improvement of the antibacterial performance of CeO2 NPs and provide our opinions for future challenges as a conclusion.