SNSF_203577_Bactericidal Nanoblades

The main objective of our project is to validate the feasibility of the concept of bactericidal nanoblades that enable the remote elimination of biofilms using a bimodal chemo-mechanical approach. Various protocols will be tested to evaluate the performance of our concept, which combines mechanical destruction and bactericidal action in synergy. Mechanical destruction will be achieved by converting magnetic energy into the rotational movement of remotely controlled anisotropic magnetic particles with different form factors to be evaluated, such as nano-plates, nano-sticks, nano-chains, and micro-magnetic sticks. The bactericidal component will be provided by the release of silver ions by convection, generating a broad-spectrum antimicrobial environment. This strategy will be evaluated on different combinations of bacterial biofilms and surfaces, including bacteria that are very important for the healthcare system and the food industry.