Nanocomplexes on the basis of Taunit associated with biocides as effective anti-cyanobacterial agents

Abstract

Cyanobacteria are photoautotrophic bacteria that are known also as blue-green algae. They accumulate on different surfaces and objects and contribute to their biodegradation. Moreover, cyanobacteria produce toxins, which lead to harmful environmental and human health impacts. Hence, cyanobacterial growth control problem is very vital. The goal of the study was to obtain new nanocomplexes on the basis of a modern nanomaterial Taunit associated with antibiotic chloramphenicol and herbicide diuron and to test their antimicrobial effect against a model organism such as the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. A nanomaterial made of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) called Taunit was used for the first time to obtain nanocomplexes coupled either with herbicide diuron (DCMU (3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)- 1,1-dimethylurea) or with antibiotic chloramphenicol. A small amount of Taunit (~1 mg) was needed to adsorb micrograms of diuron or chloramphenicol. The new formed nanocomplexes differentiate in their antimicrobial activity, which could be explained by the difference in their chemical mechanism of action. Taunit − diuron complex showed a higher biocide action against cyanobacterium than the Taunit − chloramphenicol complex. The results allow to discuss the prospects of research on the use of Taunit − diuron complex as a coating for various surfaces exposed to cyanobacteria fouling.