Nanosilver as a new generation of nanoproduct in biomedical applications

Abstract

Nanosilver (NS), comprising silver nanoparticles, is attracting interest for a range of biomedical applications owing to its potent antibacterial activity. It has recently been demonstrated that NS has useful anti-inflammatory effects and improves wound healing, which could be exploited in developing better dressings for wounds and burns. The key to its broad-acting and potent antibacterial activity is the multifaceted mechanism by which NS acts on microbes. This is utilized in antibacterial coatings on medical devices to reduce nosocomial infection rates. Many new synthesis methods have emerged and are being evaluated for NS production for medical applications. NS toxicity is also critically discussed to reflect on potential concerns before widespread application in the medical field.