Synthesis and applications of nanomaterials for quorum quenching

Abstract

Quorum quenching (QQ) disrupts quorum sensing, a communication process between bacteria that regulates biofilm formation and virulence. Nanomaterials offer QQ as an effective way to reduce antibiotic risk by targeting bacterial communication rather than directly killing bacteria. These materials, including metal nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials, and polymer nanomaterials, can adsorb signaling molecules, catalyze their degradation, or efficiently deliver QQ compounds. They have a high surface area and tunable surface chemistry that enable molecular-level interactions. The properties of oxide nanomaterials are greatly affected by synthesis techniques such as chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel, and coprecipitation, while the polymer nanoparticles are synthesized by solvent evaporation method, solvent transfer method, etc. The versatile application fields of nanomaterials for QQ include medical, agriculture, industry, and environment. However, biocompatibility, safety, stability, and scalability are the issues that need to be addressed. Therefore, in this chapter, we focus on different synthesis methods and applications that can unlock their full potential. © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.