Effect of sulfidated nanoscale zero-valent iron-activated periodate on bacterial inactivation and conjugative gene transfer

Key Points

• This research examines how sulfidated nanoscale zero-valent iron (S-nZVI) activates periodate to affect bacterial inactivation and gene transfer.
• Utilized sulfidated nanoscale zero-valent iron (S-nZVI) and periodate (PI) in various concentrations.
• Assessed bacterial inactivation rates and conjugative gene transfer rates.
• Analyzed the impact on antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs).
• S-nZVI significantly enhances the effectiveness of periodate in inactivating bacteria.
• A marked reduction in conjugative gene transfer was observed with the application of S-nZVI and PI.
• The findings suggest potential for addressing antibiotic resistance through this chemical strategy.