Multifunctional POSS-Based Nanoparticles Functionalized with Silver, SPIONs, and Rhamnolipid for Antibacterial Applications

Abstract

Nano-engineered materials, particularly those featuring bio-based surface modifications, are emerging as effective tools in combating bacterial infections. In this study, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) nanoparticles were functionalized with silver nanoparticles (Ag), superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), and the biosurfactant rhamnolipid (RL)—either individually or in combination—to evaluate their antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ( P. aeruginosa ). The modified nanoparticles exhibited sizes ranging from 127 to 227 nm and demonstrated superparamagnetic behavior, offering potential for magnetic targeting. Among the various formulations, the RL-coated, silver- and SPION-decorated POSS nanoparticles (RSMP) exhibited the highest antibacterial efficacy, reducing S. aureus and P. aeruginosa colony growth by approximately 90 % and 66 %, respectively, at a concentration of 0.01 g/L. RSMP nanoparticles also showed strong biofilm inhibition and had the lowest MIC₅₀ values. Notably, these nanoparticles supported the proliferation of human osteoblasts at concentrations up to 0.05 g/L, indicating favorable cytocompatibility. Overall, RSMP nanoparticles present a promising platform for magnetically targetable antibacterial agents, with potential applications in biomedical fields, particularly for managing orthopedic infections. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.