Bacteria can be used to biosynthesize nanoparticles through intracellular and extracellular methods. Intracellular synthesis occurs inside the cell, where bacteria reduce metal ions and deposit nanoparticles in locations like the periplasmic space. Extracellular synthesis involves enzymes secreted by bacteria reducing metal ions outside the cell and precipitating nanoparticles. Examples are given of bacteria producing silver, titanium, zinc sulfide and lead sulfide nanoparticles through extracellular and intracellular pathways. While a green approach, bacterial nanoparticle synthesis can be slow with difficulty controlling size, shape and crystallinity of particles.