Bacterial cell association and antimicrobial activity of a C60 water suspension

• DOI: 10.1897/04-649r.1
• Publication Date: 2005-10-13T18:47:27Z
• Authors: Delina Y. Lyon; John D. Fortner; Christie M. Sayes; Vicki L. Colvin; Joseph B. Hughes
• Keywords: Suspension; Gram

Prior to the implementation of any new technology, possible environmental and health repercussions first must be researched. Fullerenes are produced soon on an industrial scale, with applications quickly following. To investigate impact fullerenes, a C60-water suspension (nano-C60) was synthesized then evaluated for cell-association toxicity, using bacteria Escherichia coli Bacillus subtilis as indicator species. In defined low-salts medium, nano-C60 associated both Gram-negative E. Gram-positive B. subtilis, albeit more strongly former. Nano-C60 also displayed antimicrobial properties against minimal inhibitory concentrations 0.5 1 mg/ L 1.5 3.0 mg/L, respectively. Media higher salt contents result in particles aggregating falling out suspension; thus, solutions reduced or eliminated nano-C60.