Widespread and Indiscriminate Nanosilver Use: Genuine Potential for Microbial Resistance

In this era of increasing antibiotic
resistance, the use of alternative antimicrobials such as silver has
become more widespread. Superior antimicrobial activity has been provided
through fabrication of silver nanoparticles or nanosilver (NAg), which
imparts cytotoxic actions distinct from those of bulk silver. In the
wake of the recent discoveries of bacterial resistance to NAg and
its rising incorporation in medical and consumer goods such as wound
dressings and dietary supplements, we argue that there is an urgent
need to monitor the prevalence and spread of NAg microbial resistance.
In this Perspective, we describe how the use of NAg in commercially
available products facilitates prolonged microorganism exposure to
bioavailable silver, which underpins the development of resistance.
Furthermore, we advocate for a judicial approach toward NAg use in
order to preserve its efficacy and to avoid environmental disruption.