Understanding the Impact of Nanoparticles on Bacterial Structures: Insights from X-ray Scattering Analysis

Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as promising tools in combating the global challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) by potentially serving as drug-delivery carriers or targeting agents. However, despite their potential, gaps in understanding the nano-bio interface hinder their translation into clinical trials. This study aims to address this gap by elucidating the mechanisms underlying the action of NPs on Escherichia coli (E. coli), a model organism for Gram-negative bacteria. Utilizing X-ray scattering techniques at the ID02 beamline, our research seeks to uncover the inner structure of E. coli and analyze how the incubation of NPs disrupts it, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the interaction between NPs and bacterial cells.