Synthesis of CeO2 as promising adsorbent for the management of free-DNA harboring antibiotic resistance genes from tap-water

Abstract The free-deoxyribonucleic acid (free-DNA) cassette harboring antibiotic resistance gene in drinking water has been linked with impaired public health. To prevent the problem of antibiotic resistance, we have synthesized a CeO2 adsorbent that exhibit highly positive character in a wide pH range, via the simple self-propagation combustion protocol, for the removal of free-DNA harboring antibiotic resistance genes. Molecular characterization of the extracted genes showed that the sizes for E. coli and inherent gyrB genes are 147 and 460 bp with a purity between 19 and 2.0. The XRD, SEM, TEM, and PZC results of the as-synthesized CeO2 showed an agglomerate of pure cubic-faced centered material and highly crystalline, with a net charge at pH 6.2. Experimental results revealed that the reaction proceeded via pseudo-first-order kinetic, and it is governed by electrostatic attraction. The free-DNA solution pH, electrolyte, and competing ions impacted on the adsorption process. Further experimental results showed that the as-synthesized CeO2 adsorbent has the potential to be used for the removal of free-DNA harboring ARGs from tap-water even under oxic conditions.