Fabrication of inhaled hybrid silver/ciprofloxacin nanoparticles with synergetic effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Abstract Ciprofloxacin (CFX) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used as a first line treatment against infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pneumonia that are commonly acquired by cystic fibrosis (CF) patients . However, no inhalation formulation is currently available for ciprofloxacin. Hybrid silica coated silver nanoparticles were prepared using Stober reaction and the optimum ratio of chitosan and sodium tripolyphosphate was used to encapsulate CFX. Particle deposition was assessed in vitro using twin stage impinger while antimicrobial activity was evaluated based on the planktonic growth of P. aeruginosa as well as against P. aeruginosa sp biofilm formation. In vitro deposition results showed significant deposition in stage 2 using twin stage impinger (TSI) (∼70%). Compared to CFX, the formed hybrid nanoparticles were 3–4 folds more effective against inhibiting growth and biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa PAO1 and P. aeruginosa NCTC 10662.