Open AccessAntibacterial electrospun chitosan‐based nanofibers: A bacterial membrane perforator
Author(s) -
Arkoun Mounia,
Daigle France,
Heuzey MarieClaude,
Ajji Abdellah
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
food science and nutrition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.614
H-Index - 27
ISSN - 2048-7177
DOI - 10.1002/fsn3.468
Subject(s) - chitosan , nanofiber , listeria monocytogenes , membrane , chemistry , electrospinning , bacteria , bacterial cell structure , antibacterial activity , listeria , staphylococcus aureus , membrane permeability , microbiology and biotechnology , biology , nanotechnology , materials science , biochemistry , organic chemistry , genetics , polymer
This study investigates the antibacterial action of chitosan‐based nanofibers ( CNF s) obtained by the electrospinning process on the permeability of bacterial membranes. The bactericidal efficiency of CNF s was first determined against Gram‐negative Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium, and Gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria innocua bacteria as a baseline. The results strongly suggest that CNF s interact with the negatively charged bacterial cell wall causing membrane rupture and inducing leakage of intracellular components among which are proteins and DNA . Results clearly indicate that the release of such components after contact with CNF s is an indication of membrane permeabilization and perforation, as pore formation was observed in transmission electron microscopy ( TEM ). This work suggests a plausible antibacterial mechanism of action of CNF s and also provides clear evidence in favor of chitosan as a bacterial membrane disruptor and perforator. As a result, CNF s can find promising applications as bioactive food packaging materials capable to extend shelf life of food products while inhibiting the spread of alteration flora and foodborne pathogens.