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. 2024 Sep 21;16(9):1232. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16091232

Table 3.

An in-depth analysis of AgNPs and their potential uses.

Application Area Description Clinical Insights Setting References
Antibacterial AgNPs are used in coatings and textiles to inhibit bacterial infections, especially against antibiotic-resistant strains. AgNPs, in combination with antibiotics, enhance effectiveness against multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. In vitro [235,236,237,238,239,240]
Antiviral AgNPs demonstrate antiviral capabilities against viruses such as coronaviruses, HIV-1, influenza, herpes simplex, and hepatitis B. AgNPs act as virucidal agents and show synergistic effects with antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir against H1N1. In vitro [215,241,242,243]
Antibiofilm AgNPs are incorporated into coatings to prevent biofilm formation and disrupt established biofilms. Effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria biofilms, such as those formed by Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In vitro [200,244,245,246,247,248]
Antifungal AgNPs exhibit antifungal properties against various fungi, including those causing plant diseases and infections in immunocompromised individuals. Used to treat drug-resistant fungal infections and enhance the effectiveness of antifungal treatments. In vitro [38,40,246,247,249,250,251,252,253]
Antiparasitic AgNPs show potential against parasites such as malaria vectors, leishmaniasis, and Acanthamoeba. Demonstrate efficacy against parasites at different lifecycle stages when produced using various green synthesis methods. In vitro [254,255,256,257,258,259,260,261,262]
Anticancer and Antitumor AgNPs induce cytotoxicity in cancer cells and enhance targeted drug delivery. Used alone or with other anticancer drugs, they increase the therapeutic efficacy of treatments such as chemotherapy. In vitro [5,263,264,265,266]
Food Industry AgNPs are used in the food industry for their antibacterial properties, including food packaging, coatings, and films to prevent food spoilage and contamination. AgNPs enhance the antimicrobial properties of food packaging materials, helping to prevent the growth of drug-resistant bacteria in food products. In vitro [267,268,269,270,271,272]
Drug Delivery AgNPs improve drug stability and bioavailability, offering controlled release for enhanced treatment efficacy. Can penetrate biological barriers, such as the blood-brain barrier, facilitating targeted drug delivery. In vitro [5,273]
Medical Implants AgNPs are used to coat medical implants, enhancing their antibacterial properties and longevity. Reduce infection rates in implanted devices, show minimal cytotoxicity, and promote osseointegration. In vitro [274,275,276,277,278]
Surface Coatings AgNPs in surface coatings offer antibacterial properties and thermal enhancements, effectively fighting bacteria in air and water… AgNPs enhance the antibacterial properties of surfaces, including porous titanium, and can modify surfaces for better microbial resistance. In vitro [99,279,280,281,282,283,284,285]
Dentistry and dental industry AgNPs are utilized in dental materials to prevent biofilm formation, crucial for oral health. Improve antibacterial properties in various dental applications, supporting sterile environments. In vitro and In vivo [244,286,287,288,289]