(LOS ANGELES) - Scientists from the Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI) have chemically modified titanium dioxide nanoparticles to render them with antimicrobial powers when exposed to both darkness and visible light. These composite nanoparticles, studded with selected chemicals, demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal effectiveness, while serving as models to elucidate the pathways by which these effects are achieved. This opens enticing possibilities for green technology applications, such as wastewater treatment, air purification, or preservation of food.