Analysis of the Toxic Mode of Action of Silver Nanoparticles Using Stress‐Specific Bioluminescent Bacteria

Every cell has a silver lining! The toxicity of Ag nanoparticles is investigated using a panel of recombinant bioluminescent bacteria. The presence of the nanoparticles leads to the production of a superoxide radical (see figure). Furthermore, the Ag nanoparticles damage the cellular membranes, causing a disruption in the ion efflux system. Thus, the cells cannot effectively extrude the Ag ions and, hence, Ag nanoparticles cause more damage than do Ag ions. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2296/2008/smll200700954_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.