TEMPO-oxidized biodegradable bacterial cellulose (BBC) membrane coated with biologically-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a potential antimicrobial agent in aquaculture (In vitro)

The emergence of drug-resistance pathogens is one of the major challenges in aquaculture. Finding an alternative remedy for diseases control is now crucial and indispensable. The present study aimed to develop different silver nanocomposite BBC membranes and verified their bactericidal activity either synergistically or independently against seven threatening aquatic pathogens (Vibrio harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, V. alginolyticus, V. vulnificus, Aeromonas hydrophila, A. veronii and Streptococcus iniae) using membrane disc diffusion and antibacterial log reduction assays. The aqueous extract of Pseudomonas sp. was used for the synthesis of AgNPs and the composite BBC materials were characterized using FTIR, XRD, EDS, and FESEM to confirm their holding capacity of integrated AgNPs. Results evidenced that the TEMPO-oxidized BBC membrane coated with bacterial-based AgNPs exhibited an excellent crystallinity, porous properties, and strongest holding capacity. The membrane also showed potent bactericidal activity represented by wide inhibitory zones (17-20 mm), high killing ratios (95.93-99.86%). and high antibacterial log-reduction values (1.39-2.85). In conclusion, the synergism between TEMPO-oxidized BBC membrane and biologically synthesized AgNPs is an eco-friendly alternative remedy to control aquatic diseases without serious impact.