Green Approach to Overcome the Resistance Pattern of Candida spp. Using Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Fabricated by Penicillium chrysogenum F9

Fungus-mediated synthesis of Se-BiO-CuO multimetallic nanoparticles as a potential alternative antimicrobial against ESBL-producing Escherichia coli of veterinary origin

Bacterial infections emerge as a significant contributor to mortality and morbidity worldwide. Emerging extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli strains provide a greater risk of bacteremia and mortality, are increasingly resistant to antibiotics, and are a major producer of ESBLs. E. coli bacteremia-linked mastitis is one of the most common bacterial diseases in animals, which can affect the quality of the milk and damage organ functions. There is an elevated menace of treatment failure and recurrence of E. coli bacteremia necessitating the adoption of rigorous alternative treatment approaches. In this study, Se-Boil-CuO multimetallic nanoparticles (MMNPs) were synthesized as an alternate treatment from Talaromyces haitouensis extract, and their efficiency in treating ESBL E. coli was confirmed using standard antimicrobial assays. Scanning electron microscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering were used to validate and characterize the mycosynthesized Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs. UV-visible spectra of Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs showed absorption peak bands at 570, 376, and 290 nm, respectively. The average diameters of the amorphous-shaped Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs synthesized by T. haitouensis extract were approximately 66-80 nm, respectively. Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs (100 μg/mL) showed a maximal inhibition zone of 18.33 ± 0.57 mm against E. coli. Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs also exhibited a deleterious impact on E. coli killing kinetics, biofilm formation, swimming motility, efflux of cellular components, and membrane integrity. The hemolysis assay also confirms the biocompatibility of Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs at the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range. Our findings suggest that Se-BiO-CuO MMNPs may serve as a potential substitute for ESBL E. coli bacteremia.

New insights into the anticancer effects of Polycladia crinita aqueous extract and its selenium nanoformulation against the solid Ehrlich carcinoma model in mice via VEGF, notch 1, NF-кB, cyclin D1, and caspase 3 signaling pathway

Background: Phaeophyceae species are enticing interest among researchers working in the nanotechnology discipline, because of their diverse biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-tumor. In the present study, the anti-cancer properties of Polycladia crinita extract and green synthesized Polycladia crinita selenium nanoparticles (PCSeNPs) against breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) and solid Ehrlich carcinoma (SEC) were investigated. Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy examinations of Polycladia crinita were determined and various analytical procedures, such as SEM, TEM, EDX, and XRD, were employed to characterize the biosynthesized PCSeNPs. In vitro, the anticancer activity of free Polycladia crinita and PCSeNPs was evaluated using the viability assay against MDA-MB-231, and also cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry was determined. Furthermore, to study the possible mechanisms behind the in vivo anti-tumor action, mice bearing SEC were randomly allocated into six equal groups (n = 6). Group 1: Tumor control group, group 2: free SeNPs, group 3: 25 mg/kg Polycladia crinita, group 4: 50 mg/kg Polycladia crinita, group 5: 25 mg/kg PCSeNPs, group 6: 50 mg/kg PCSeNPs. Results: Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy examinations of Polycladia crinita extract exposed the presence of many bioactive compounds, such as 4-Octadecenoic acid-methyl ester, Tetradecanoic acid, and n-Hexadecenoic acid. These compounds together with other compounds found, might work in concert to encourage the development of anti-tumor activities. Polycladia crinita extract and PCSeNPs were shown to inhibit cancer cell viability and early cell cycle arrest. Concentrations of 50 mg/kg of PCSeNPs showed suppression of COX-2, NF-кB, VEGF, ki-67, Notch 1, and Bcl-2 protein levels. Otherwise, showed amplification of the caspase 3, BAX, and P53 protein levels. Moreover, gene expression of caspase 3, caspase 9, Notch 1, cyclin D1, NF-кB, IL-6, and VEGF was significantly more effective with PCSeNPs than similar doses of free extract. Conclusion: The PCSeNPs mediated their promising anti-cancerous action by enhancing apoptosis and mitigating inflammation, which manifested in promoting the total survival rate and the tumor volume decrease.

Development and evaluation of an anti-candida cream based on silver nanoparticles

The ineffectiveness of azole drugs in treating Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) and Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (RVVC) due to antifungal resistance of non-albicans Candida has led to the investigation of inorganic nanoparticles with biological activity. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are important in nanomedicine and have been used in various products and technologies. This study aimed to develop a vaginal cream and assess its in vitro antimicrobial activity against Candida parapsilosis strains, specifically focusing on the synergy between AgNPs and miconazole. AgNPs were synthesized using glucose as a reducing agent and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as a stabilizer in varying amounts (0.50, 0.25, and 0.10 g). The AgNPs were characterized using UV-Visible (UV-Vis) and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopies, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX). Fifty strains of Candida parapsilosis were used to evaluate the synergistic activity. AgNPs synthesized with 0.5 g SDS had an average size of 77.58 nm and a zeta potential of -49.2 mV, while AgNPs with 0.25 g showed 91.22 nm and -47.2 mV, respectively. AgNPs stabilized with 0.1 g of SDS were not effective. When combined with miconazole, AgNPs exhibited significant antifungal activity, resulting in an average increase of 80% in inhibition zones. The cream developed in this study, containing half the miconazole concentration of commercially available medication, demonstrated larger inhibition zones compared to the commercial samples.

Inorganic Nanoparticles: Tools to Emphasize the Janus Face of Amphotericin B

Amphotericin B is the oldest antifungal molecule which is still currently widely used in clinical practice, in particular for the treatment of invasive diseases, even though it is not devoid of side effects (particularly nephrotoxicity). Recently, its redox properties (i.e., both prooxidant and antioxidant) have been highlighted in the literature as mechanisms involved in both its activity and its toxicity. Interestingly, similar properties can be described for inorganic nanoparticles. In the first part of the present review, the redox properties of Amphotericin B and inorganic nanoparticles are discussed. Then, in the second part, inorganic nanoparticles as carriers of the drug are described. A special emphasis is given to their combined redox properties acting either as a prooxidant or as an antioxidant and their connection to the activity against pathogens (i.e., fungi, parasites, and yeasts) and to their toxicity. In a majority of the published studies, inorganic nanoparticles carrying Amphotericin B are described as having a synergistic activity directly related to the rupture of the redox homeostasis of the pathogen. Due to the unique properties of inorganic nanoparticles (e.g., magnetism, intrinsic anti-infectious properties, stimuli-triggered responses, etc.), these nanomaterials may represent a new generation of medicine that can synergistically enhance the antimicrobial properties of Amphotericin B.

New investigation of anti-inflammatory activity of Polycladia crinita and biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles: isolation and characterization

BACKGROUND

Marine macroalgae have gained interest recently, mostly due to their bioactive components. Polycladia crinita is an example of marine macroalgae from the Phaeophyceae class, also known as brown algae. They are characterized by a variety of bioactive compounds with valuable medical applications. The prevalence of such naturally active marine resources has made macroalgae-mediated manufacturing of nanoparticles an appealing strategy. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features of an aqueous extract of Polycladia crinita and biosynthesized P. crinita selenium nanoparticles (PCSeNPs) via a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. The synthesized PCSeNPs were fully characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and EDX analyses.

RESULTS

FTIR analysis of Polycladia crinita extract showed several sharp absorption peaks at 3435.2, 1423.5, and 876.4 cm-1 which represent O-H, C=O and C=C groups. Moreover, the most frequent functional groups identified in P. crinita aqueous extract that are responsible for producing SeNPs are the -NH2-, -C=O-, and -SH- groups. The EDX spectrum analysis revealed that the high percentages of Se and O, 1.09 ± 0.13 and 36.62 ± 0.60%, respectively, confirmed the formation of SeNPs. The percentages of inhibition of the edema in pretreated groups with doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg, i.p., of PCSeNPs were 62.78% and 77.24%, respectively. Furthermore, the pretreated groups with 25, 50 mg/kg of P. crinita extract displayed a substantial decrease in the MDA levels (P < 0.00, 26.9%, and 51.68% decrease, respectively), indicating potent antioxidant effect. Additionally, the pretreated groups with PCSeNPs significantly suppressed the MDA levels (P < 0.00, 54.77%, and 65.08% decreases, respectively). The results of immune-histochemical staining revealed moderate COX-2 and Il-1β expressions with scores 2 and 1 in rats pre-treated with 25 and 50 mg/kg of free extract, respectively. Additionally, the rats pre-treated with different doses of PCSeNPs demonstrated weak COX-2 and Il-1β expressions with score 1 (25 mg/kg) and negative expression with score 0 (50 mg/kg). Both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were dose-dependent.

CONCLUSIONS

These distinguishing features imply that this unique alga is a promising anti-inflammatory agent. Further studies are required to investigate its main active ingredients and possible side effects.

Myco-synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles using harnessing metabolites of endophytic fungal strain Aspergillus terreus: an insight into antibacterial, anti-Candida, biocompatibility, anticancer, and antioxidant activities

BACKGROUND

The overuse of antibiotics leads to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant microbes which causes high mortality worldwide. Therefore, the synthesis of new active compounds has multifunctional activities are the main challenge. Nanotechnology provides a solution for this issue.

METHOD

The endophytic fungal strain Aspergillus terreus BR.1 was isolated from the healthy root of Allium sativum and identified using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence analysis. The copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) were synthesized by harnessing the metabolites of the endophytic fungal strain. The UV-Visble spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission electron micrscopy (TEM), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential (ζ) were used for the characterization of synthesized CuO-NPs. The activity against different pathogenic bacteria and Candida species were investigated by agar well-diffusion method. The biocombatibility and anticancer activity were assessed by MTT assay method. The scavenging of DPPH was used to investigate the antioxidant activity of synthesized CuO-NPs.

RESULTS

Data showed the successful formation of crystalline nature and spherical shape CuO-NPs with sizes in the ranges of 15-55 nm. The EDX reveals that the as-formed sample contains ions of C, O, Cl, and Cu with weight percentages of 18.7, 23.82, 11.31, and 46.17%, respectively. The DLS and ζ-potential showed high homogeneity and high stability of synthesized CuO-NPs with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.362 and ζ-value of - 26.6 mV. The synthesized CuO-NPs exhibited promising antibacterial and anti-Candida activity (concentration-dependent) with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the ranges of 25-50 µg mL^-1. Moreover, the fungal mediated-CuO-NPs targeted cancer cells of MCF7 and PC3 at low IC₅₀ concentrations of 159.2 ± 4.5 and 116.2 ± 3.6 µg mL^-1, respectively as compared to normal cells (Vero and Wi38 with IC₅₀ value of 220.6 ± 3.7 and 229.5 ± 2.1 µg mL^-1, respectively). The biosynthesized CuO-NPs showed antioxidant activity as detected by the DPPH method with scavenging percentages of 80.5 ± 1.2% at a concentration of 1000 µg mL^-1 and decreased to 20.4 ± 4.2% at 1.9 µg mL^-1 as compared to ascorbic acid (control) with scavenging activity of 97.3 ± 0.2 and 37.5 ± 1.3% at the same concentrations, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The fungal mediated-CuO-NPs exhibited promising activity and can be integrated into various biomedical and theraputic applications.

Exploring the antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, biocompatibility, and larvicidal activities of selenium nanoparticles fabricated by endophytic fungal strain Penicillium verhagenii

Herein, four endophytic fungal strains living in healthy roots of garlic were used to produce selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) via green synthesis. Penicillium verhagenii was found to be the most efficient Se-NPs producer with a ruby red color that showed maximum surface plasmon resonance at 270 nm. The as-formed Se-NPs were crystalline, spherical, and well-arranged without aggregation, and ranged from 25 to 75 nm in size with a zeta potential value of -32 mV, indicating high stability. Concentration-dependent biomedical activities of the P. verhagenii-based Se-NPs were observed, including promising antimicrobial activity against different pathogens (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis) with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 12.5-100 µg mL^-1. The biosynthesized Se-NPs showed high antioxidant activity with DPPH-scavenging percentages of 86.8 ± 0.6% at a concentration of 1000 µg mL^-1 and decreased to 19.3 ± 4.5% at 1.95 µg mL^-1. Interestingly, the Se-NPs also showed anticancer activity against PC3 and MCF7 cell lines with IC₅₀ of 225.7 ± 3.6 and 283.8 ± 7.5 µg mL^-1, respectively while it is remaining biocompatible with normal WI38 and Vero cell lines. Additionally, the green synthesized Se-NPs were effective against instar larvae of a medical insect, Aedes albopictus with maximum mortality of 85.1 ± 3.1, 67.2 ± 1.2, 62.10 ± 1.4, and 51.0 ± 1.0% at a concentration of 50 µg mL^-1 for I, II, III, and IV-instar larva, respectively. These data highlight the efficacy of endophytic fungal strains for cost-effective and eco-friendly Se-NPs synthesis with different applications.

Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using an Aqueous Extract of Punica granatum for Antimicrobial and Catalytic Activity

The peel aqueous extract of Punica granatum was utilized to fabricate zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) as a green approach. The synthesized NPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy, which was attached to an energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). Spherical, well arranged, and crystallographic structures of ZnO-NPs were formed with sizes of 10-45 nm. The biological activities of ZnO-NPs, including antimicrobial and catalytic activity for methylene blue dye, were assessed. Data analysis showed that the antimicrobial activity against pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as unicellular fungi, was observed to occur in a dose-dependent manner, displaying varied inhibition zones and low minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the ranges of 6.25-12.5 µg mL^-1. The degradation efficacy of methylene blue (MB) using ZnO-NPs is dependent on nano-catalyst concentration, contact time, and incubation condition (UV-light emission). The maximum MB degradation percentages of 93.4 ± 0.2% was attained at 20 µg mL^-1 after 210 min in presence of UV-light. Data analysis showed that there is no significant difference between the degradation percentages after 210, 1440, and 1800 min. Moreover, the nano-catalyst showed high stability and efficacy to degrade MB for five cycles with decreasing values of 4%. Overall, P. granatum-based ZnO-NPs are promising tools to inhibit the growth of pathogenic microbes and degradation of MB in the presence of UV-light emission.

Biosynthesis of Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Microbial Cultures: Mechanisms, Antimicrobial Activity and Applications to Cultural Heritage

Nanoparticles (1 to 100 nm) have unique physical and chemical properties, which makes them suitable for application in a vast range of scientific and technological fields. In particular, metal nanoparticle (MNPs) research has been showing promising antimicrobial activities, paving the way for new applications. However, despite some research into their antimicrobial potential, the antimicrobial mechanisms are still not well determined. Nanoparticles' biosynthesis, using plant extracts or microorganisms, has shown promising results as green alternatives to chemical synthesis; however, the knowledge regarding the mechanisms behind it is neither abundant nor consensual. In this review, findings from studies on the antimicrobial and biosynthesis mechanisms of MNPs were compiled and evidence-based mechanisms proposed. The first revealed the importance of enzymatic disturbance by internalized metal ions, while the second illustrated the role of reducing and negatively charged molecules. Additionally, the main results from recent studies (2018-2022) on the biosynthesis of MNPs using microorganisms were summarized and analyzed, evidencing a prevalence of research on silver nanoparticles synthesized using bacteria aiming toward testing their antimicrobial potential. Finally, a synopsis of studies on MNPs applied to cultural heritage materials showed potential for their future use in preservation.

Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles from the Extremophile Plant Aeonium haworthii and Their Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Anti-Diabetic Capacities

The present paper described the first green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from the extremophile plant Aeonium haworthii. The characterization of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles was carried out by using UV-Vis, FTIR and STM analysis. The antioxidant, antidiabetic and antimicrobial properties were also reported. The newly described AgNPs were spherical in shape and had a size of 35-55 nm. The lowest IC50 values measured by the DPPH assay indicate the superior antioxidant behavior of our AgNPs as opposed to ascorbic acid. The silver nanoparticles show high antidiabetic activity determined by the inhibitory effect of α amylase as compared to the standard Acarbose. Moreover, the AgNPs inhibit bacterial growth owing to a bactericidal effect with the MIC values varying from 0.017 to 1.7 µg/mL. The antifungal action was evaluated against Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, Candida sake and non-dermatophytic onychomycosis fungi. A strong inhibitory effect on Candida factors' virulence was observed as proteinase and phospholipase limitations. In addition, the microscopic observations show that the silver nanoparticles cause the eradication of blastospores and block filamentous morphogenesis. The combination of the antioxidant, antimicrobial and antidiabetic behaviors of the new biosynthesized silver nanoparticles highlights their promising use as natural phytomedicine agents.

Antifungal Activity of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Aspergilli Causing Aspergillosis: Ultrastructure Study

Currently, nanoparticles and nanomaterials are widely used for biomedical applications. In the present study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully biosynthesized using a cell-free extract (CFE) of Bacillus thuringiensis MAE 6 through a green and ecofriendly method. The size of the biosynthesized AgNPs was 32.7 nm, and their crystalline nature was confirmed by XRD, according to characterization results. A surface plasmon resonance spectrum of AgNPs was obtained at 420 nm. Nanoparticles were further characterized using DLS and FTIR analyses, which provided information on their size, stability, and functional groups. AgNPs revealed less cytotoxicity against normal Vero cell line [IC₅₀ = 155 μg/mL]. Moreover, the biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited promising antifungal activity against four most common Aspergillus, including Aspergillus niger, A. terreus, A. flavus, and A. fumigatus at concentrations of 500 μg/mL where inhibition zones were 16, 20, 26, and 19 mm, respectively. In addition, MICs of AgNPs against A. niger, A. terreus, A. flavus, and A. fumigatus were 125, 62.5, 15.62, and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the ultrastructural study confirmed the antifungal effect of AgNPs, where the cell wall's integrity and homogeneity were lost; the cell membrane had separated from the cell wall and had intruded into the cytoplasm. In conclusion, the biosynthesized AgNPs using a CFE of B. thuringiensis can be used as a promising antifungal agent against Aspergillus species causing Aspergillosis.

Antimicrobial, Antiviral, and In-Vitro Cytotoxicity and Mosquitocidal Activities of Portulaca oleracea-Based Green Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles

The aqueous extract of Portulaca oleracea was used as a biocatalyst for the reduction of Na₂SeO₃ to form Se-NPs that appeared red in color and showed maximum surface plasmon resonance at a wavelength of 266 nm, indicating the successful Phyto-fabrication of Se-NPs. A FT-IR chart clarified the role of plant metabolites such as proteins, carbohydrates, and amino acids in capping and stabilizing Se-NPs. TEM, SAED, and XRD analyses indicated the formation of spherical, well-arranged, and crystalline Se-NPs with sizes in the range of 2-22 nm. SEM-EDX mapping showed the maximum peaks of Se at 1.4, 11.3, and 12.4 KeV, with weight and atomic percentages of 36.49 and 30.39%, respectively. A zeta potential of -43.8 mV also indicated the high stability of the synthesized Se-NPs. The Phyto-synthesized Se-NPs showed varied biological activities in a dose-dependent manner, including promising activity against pathogenic bacteria and Candida species with varied MIC values in the range of 12.5-50 µg·mL^-1. Moreover, the Se-NPs showed antiviral activity toward HAV and Cox-B4, with percentages of 70.26 and 62.58%, respectively. Interestingly, Se-NPs showed a target orientation to cancer cell lines (HepG2) with low IC₅₀ concentration at 70.79 ± 2.2 µg·mL^-1 compared to normal cell lines (WI-38) with IC₅₀ at165.5 ± 5.4 µg·mL^-1. Moreover, the as-formed Se-NPs showed high activity against various instar larvae I, II, III, and IV of Culex pipiens, with the highest mortality percentages of 89 ± 3.1, 73 ± 1.2, 68 ± 1.4, and 59 ± 1.0%, respectively, at 50 mg L^-1. Thus, P. oleracea-based Se-NPs would be strong potential antimicrobial, anti-viral, anti-cancer, and anti-insect agents in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries.

A SERS Platform for Rapid Detection of Drug Resistance of Non-Candida albicans Using Fe3O4@PEI and Triangular Silver Nanoplates

Purpose

Candida infection has a high mortality rate, and the increasing prevalence of non-Candida albicans drug resistance in recent years poses a potential threat to human health. Non-Candida albicans has long culture cycles, and its firm cell walls making it difficult to isolate DNA for sequencing.

Materials and Methods

Fe₃O₄@PEI (PEI, polyvinyl imine) was mixed with clinical samples to form Fe₃O₄@PEI@non-Candida albicans and enriched them with magnets. Triangular silver nanoplates enhanced the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) signal. SERS was used to detect the fingerprint spectrum of non-Candida albicans. Then, orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) was used to analyze the drug resistance of non-Candida albicans.

Results

SERS combined with OPLS-DA could well analyze the drug resistance of non-Candida albicans. Through 10-fold-cross validation, the accuracy of training and test data is greater than 99%, indicating that the model has good classification ability. We used SERS for the first time to detect the drug resistance of non-Candida albicans directly.

Conclusion

This approach can be utilized without causing damage to the cell wall and can be accomplished in as little as 90 minutes. It can provide timely guidance for the treatment of patients with good clinical application potential.

Light-emitting diode (LED)-directed green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and evaluation of their multifaceted clinical and biological activities

The trend of using plant extracts for the synthesis of nanoparticles has increased in recent years due to environmental safety, low cost, simplicity and sustainability of the green route. Moreover, the morphology of NPs can be fine-tuned by applying abiotic factors such as LEDs, which enhance the bio-reduction of the precursor salt and excite phytochemicals during their green synthesis. Considering this, in present study, the green synthesis of AgNPs was carried out using Dalbergia sissoo leaf extract under the illumination of red, green, blue, yellow and white LEDs. The phytochemical profile of the leaf extract in terms of total phenolic and flavonoid content was responsible for the effective synthesis of AgNPs, where alcohols and phenols were mainly involved in the capping and bio-reduction of the NPs. Moreover, the XRD data showed the face center cubic crystalline nature of the AgNPs with the interesting finding that the LEDs helped to reduce the size of the AgNPs significantly. Among the samples, Y-DS-AgNPs (34.63 nm) were the smallest in size, with the control having a size of 87.35 nm. The LEDs not only reduced the size of the AgNPs but also resulted in the synthesis of non-agglomerated AgNPs with different shapes including spherical, triangular, and hexagonal compared to the mixed-shape control AgNPs, as shown by the SEM analysis. These LED-directed AgNPs showed extraordinary therapeutic potential especially B-DS-AgNPs, which exhibited the highest anti-oxidant, anti-glycation and anti-bacterial activities. Alternatively, Y-DS-AgNPs were the most cytotoxic towards HepG2 cells, inducing intracellular ROS/RNS production, accompanied by a disruption in the mitochondrial membrane potential, caspase-3 gene activation and induction of caspase-3/7 activity. Lastly, AgNPs showed mild toxicity towards brine shrimp and moderately hemolyzed hRBCs, showing their biosafe nature. Here, we conclude that external factors such as LEDs are effective in controlling the morphology of AgNPs, which further enhanced their therapeutic efficacy.

Light enhanced the antimicrobial, anticancer, and catalytic activities of selenium nanoparticles fabricated by endophytic fungal strain, Penicillium crustosum EP-1

Selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) has recently received great attention over owing to their superior optical properties and wide biological and biomedical applications. Herein, crystallographic and dispersed spherical Se-NPs were green synthesized using endophytic fungal strain, Penicillium crustosum EP-1. The antimicrobial, anticancer, and catalytic activities of biosynthesized Se-NPs were investigated under dark and light (using Halogen tungsten lamp, 100 Watt, λ > 420 nm, and light intensity of 2.87 W m⁻²) conditions. The effect of Se-NPs was dose dependent and higher activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well different Candida spp. were attained in the presence of light than obtained under dark conditions. Moreover, the viabilities of two cancer cells (T47D and HepG2) were highly decreased from 95.8 ± 2.9% and 93.4 ± 3.2% in dark than those of 84.8 ± 2.9% and 46.4 ± 3.3% under light-irradiation conditions, respectively. Significant decreases in IC₅₀ values of Se-NPs against T47D and HepG2 were obtained at 109.1 ± 3.8 and 70.4 ± 2.5 µg mL⁻¹, respectively in dark conditions than 19.7 ± 7.2 and 4.8 ± 4.2 µg mL⁻¹, respectively after exposure to light-irradiation. The photoluminescence activity of Se-NPs revealed methylene blue degradation efficiency of 89.1 ± 2.1% after 210 min under UV-irradiation compared to 59.7 ± 0.2% and 68.1 ± 1.03% in dark and light conditions, respectively. Moreover, superior stability and efficient MB degradation efficiency were successfully achieved for at least five cycles.

Phyco-Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Marine Macroalgae, Ulva fasciata Delile, Characterization, Antibacterial Activity, Photocatalysis, and Tanning Wastewater Treatment

The aqueous extract of marine green macroalgae, Ulva fasciata Delile, was harnessed for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). The conversion to ZnO-NPs was characterized by color change, UV–vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, TEM, SEM-EDX, and XRD. Data showed the formation of spherical and crystalline ZnO-NPs with a size range of 3–33 nm. SEM-EDX revealed the presence of Zn and O in weight percentages of 45.3 and 31.62%, respectively. The phyco-synthesized ZnO-NPs exhibited an effective antibacterial activity against the pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The bacterial clear zones ranged from 21.7 ± 0.6 to 14.7 ± 0.6 mm with MIC values of 50–6.25 µg mL−1. The catalytic activity of our product was investigated in dark and visible light conditions, using the methylene blue (MB) dye. The maximum dye removal (84.9 ± 1.2%) was achieved after 140 min in the presence of 1.0 mg mL−1 of our nanocatalyst under the visible light at a pH of 7 and a temperature of 35 °C. This percentage was decreased to 53.4 ± 0.7% under the dark conditions. This nanocatalyst showed a high reusability with a decreasing percentage of ~5.2% after six successive cycles. Under the optimum conditions, ZnO-NPs showed a high efficacy in decolorizing the tanning wastewater with a percentage of 96.1 ± 1.7%. Moreover, the parameters of the COD, BOD, TSS, and conductivity were decreased with percentages of 88.8, 88.5, 96.9, and 91.5%, respectively. Moreover, nano-ZnO had a high efficacy in decreasing the content of the tanning wastewater Cr (VI) from 864.3 ± 5.8 to 57.3 ± 4.1 mg L−1 with a removal percentage of 93.4%.

Synergistic Antifungal Efficiency of Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles with Itraconazole against Multidrug-Resistant Candidal Strains

Fungal infections caused by multidrug-resistant strains are considered one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Moreover, antifungal medications used in conventional antifungal treatment revealed poor therapeutic effectiveness and possible side effects such as hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and myelotoxicity. Therefore, the current study was developed to determine the antifungal effectiveness of green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their synergistic efficiency with antifungal drugs against multidrug-resistant candidal strains. The AgNPs were greenly synthesized using the aqueous peel extract of Punica granatum. In addition, AgNPs were characterized using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry (UV/Vis), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and zeta potential analysis. In this regard, UV-vis analysis indicated SPR of AgNPs at 396 nm, while the particle size distribution revealed that the average particle size was 18.567 ± 1.46 nm. The surface charge of AgNPs was found to be −15.6 mV, indicating their stability in aqueous solutions. The biofabricated AgNPs indicated antifungal activity against Candida tropicalis, C. albicans, and C. glabrata strains showing inhibitory zone diameters of 23.78 ± 0.63, 21.38 ± 0.58, and 16.53 ± 0.21 mm, respectively while their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was found to be 2.5 µg/mL against C. tropicalis strain. AgNPs and itraconazole revealed the highest synergistic activity against the multidrug-resistant strain, C. glabrata, recording a synergism percentage of 74.32%. In conclusion, the biogenic AgNPs in combination with itraconazole drug exhibited potential synergistic activity against different candidal strains indicating their potential usage in the bioformulation of highly effective antifungal agents.

Anticancer Effects of Gold Nanoparticles by Inducing Apoptosis in Bladder Cancer 5637 Cells

Nanotechnology is a developing and revolutionary science that has been widely recommended for diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Among the various nanoparticles used in nanotechnology, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have attracted much attentions due to their promising anticancer properties. Despite the potential advantages of AuNPs, their apoptotic and anti-angiogenic effects have not yet been reported on human bladder cancer 5637 cells. This motivated us to evaluate (reactive oxygen species) ROS-mediated apoptosis in 5637 cells. For this task, inhibitory effect of AuNPs was investigated after 24-h exposure to different concentrations of AuNPs by MTT assay. Also, apoptosis level was assessed by ROS production, flow cytometry, and Hoechst 33,258 staining. Besides, mRNA expression of B-cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) genes, and caspase-3,7 activity were determined by qRT-PCR and colorimetric assay, respectively. Moreover, migration rate was evaluated by wound healing assay. MTT results demonstrate that AuNPs can reduce 5637-cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, while fluorimetric assay data show significant increased ROS production in 25 and 50 µg/ml-treated cells. It is also observed that AuNPs lead to Bax overexpression and downregulation of Bcl-2 and VEGFA genes. In line with this, flow cytometry results show increased levels of apoptosis in 25 and 50 µg/ml AuNP-treated cells (p < 0.05). Similarly, Hoechst staining indicates a remarkable increase in cells with apoptotic morphology after treating with AuNPs. Overall, our findings show that AuNPs significantly provoke ROS production, induce apoptosis, and suppress cell migration in bladder cancer 5637 cells.

Aspergillus flavus-Mediated Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Evaluation of Their Antibacterial, Anti-Candida, Acaricides, and Photocatalytic Activities

Aspergillus flavus F5 was used to reduce AgNO3 to form silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) that were monitored by a color change from colorless to yellowish-brown. The characterizations were achieved by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, TEM, SEM-EDX, and XRD. Data showed that there was a successful formation of crystalline, spherical shape Ag-NPs with a particle average size of 12.5 ± 5.1 nm. The FT-IR clarified the role of various functional groups in the reducing/capping process. EDX-SEM revealed that the main component of the as-formed sample was set to be mainly Ag with a weight percentage of 46.1%. The synthesized Ag-NPs exhibit antibacterial and anti-Candida activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis, with inhibition zones ranging between 9.3 ± 0.5 to 20.8 ± 0.3 nm based on concentrations used and MIC values between 6.25 to 25 ppm. The mortality percentages of Tyrophagus putrescentiae mite species due to the mixing of their diet with different Ag-NPs concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg were 55.7 ± 2.1, 73.3 ± 1.5, and 87.4 ± 1.6% respectively after 20 days post-treatment. The catalytic activity of Ag-NPs to degrade methylene blue (MB) was investigated in the presence and absence of light irradiation. Data showed that a high photocatalytic degradation of MB compared with dark conditions at various times and concentrations. At a concentration of 70 mg/30 mL after 200 min., the dye removal percentages were 86.4 ± 0.4% in the presence of light irradiation versus 66.5 ± 1.1% in dark conditions.

Mycosynthesis, Characterization, and Mosquitocidal Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Fabricated by Aspergillus niger Strain

Herein, silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) were synthesized using an environmentally friendly approach by harnessing the metabolites of Aspergillus niger F2. The successful formation of Ag-NPs was checked by a color change to yellowish-brown, followed by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Data showed the successful formation of crystalline Ag-NPs with a spherical shape at the maximum surface plasmon resonance of 420 nm with a size range of 3–13 nm. The Ag-NPs showed high toxicity against I, II, III, and IV instar larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti with LC50 and LC90 values of 12.4–22.9 ppm and 22.4–41.4 ppm, respectively under laboratory conditions. The field assay exhibited the highest reduction in larval density due to treatment with Ag-NPs (10× LC50) with values of 59.6%, 74.7%, and 100% after 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. The exposure of A. aegypti adults to the vapor of burning Ag-NPs-based coils caused a reduction of unfed individuals with a percentage of 81.6 ± 0.5% compared with the positive control, pyrethrin-based coils (86.1 ± 1.1%). The ovicidal activity of biosynthesized Ag-NPs caused the hatching of the eggs with percentages of 50.1 ± 0.9, 33.5 ± 1.1, 22.9 ± 1.1, and 13.7 ± 1.2% for concentrations of 5, 10, 15, and 20 ppm, whereas Ag-NPs at a concentration of 25 and 30 ppm caused complete egg mortality (100%). The obtained data confirmed the applicability of biosynthesized Ag-NPs to the biocontrol of A. aegypti at low concentrations.

Recent Advances in Green Synthesis of Ag NPs for Extenuating Antimicrobial Resistance

Combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an on-going global grand challenge, as recognized by several UN Sustainable Development Goals. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are well-known for their efficacy against antimicrobial resistance, and a plethora of green synthesis methodologies now exist in the literature. Herein, this review evaluates recent advances in biological approaches for Ag NPs, and their antimicrobial potential of Ag NPs with mechanisms of action are explored deeply. Moreover, short and long-term potential toxic effects of Ag NPs on animals, the environment, and human health are briefly discussed. Finally, we also provide a summary of the current state of the research and future challenges on a biologically mediated Ag-nanostructures-based effective platform for alleviating AMR.

Photocatalytic Efficacy of Heterocyclic Base Grafted Chitosan Magnetite Nanoparticles on Sorption of Pb(II); Application on Mining Effluent

Development of bio-based sorbents (i.e., chitosan moieties) at nanoscale size for the removal of metal contaminants is the main target of this research. Grafting with thiazole heterocyclic derivative gives fast kinetics sorption, highly metal loading, and good recyclability for mining leaching solution. Different analyses tools including (thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), BET surface area (nitrogen sorption desorption), titration, and TEM (transmission electron microscopy)) were used to investigate the chemical and textural properties of the functionalized sorbent. The sorption was measured in normal visible light and under UV emission. The highest capacity was measured at pH 5, which reached 0.251 mmol Pb g−1 in visible light compared with 0.346 mmol Pb g−1 under UV for the pristine crosslinked chitosan (MCc). The sorption performances were improved by functionalization; (0.7814 and 1.014 mmol Pb g−1) for the functionalized sorbent (MCa-ATA) under visible light and UV, respectively. PFORE (pseudo-first-order rate equation) and RIDE (resistance to intraparticle diffusion) fit kinetics, the Sips equation is the most fit profile for the sorption isotherms for the MCc in either light and UV processes, while PFORE and RIDE for kinetics under light and UV for MCa-ATA and Sips in light and Sips and Langmuir under the UV emission. Finally, the sorbent was investigated toward a raffinate solution from ore processing and shows promising extraction tools for the most interesting elements.

Synthesis and characterization of new functionalized chitosan and its antimicrobial and in-vitro release behavior from topical gel

Recently, chitosan and its derivatives have been gaining more attention due to their high integration into various biomedical applications. Herein, a new chitosan derivative was prepared by linking the chitosan (Cs) with a novel heterocyclic compound, Benzoimidazolyl-thiadiazole (BzimTD) to form Cs-BzimTD. The synthesis of the new chitosan derivative was confirmed by Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR), thermogravimetric (TGA-DTG) analysis, elemental analysis, and UV-Visible spectrophotometer. Data showed the high efficacy of functionalized Cs-BzimTD to inhibit the growth of pathogenic microbes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans, with inhibition zones of 15.3 ± 0.6 - 9.2 ± 0.3 mm. Also, Cs-BzimTD was applied in a topical gel formulation by using two different polymers, Carbopol 940 (CP) and Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) to form three gel formulations: Cs-BzimTD-CP, Cs-BzimTD-CMC, and Cs-BzimTD-CP-CMC. The new gels were checked for physical appearance, viscosity, Cs-BzimTD release, pH, spread-ability, and drug content. The results showed that all formulations were clear, transparent, and homogeneous with non-irritant pH values for skin (6.4 - 6.8). The spread-ability was found in the range of 7.1 - 9.4 g.cm/s. The Cs-BzimTD-CP formula showed the maximal Cs-BzimTD content percentage (86.5%) and the Cs-BzimTD release varied from 89.9 to 81.6% after 8 h depending on the gel formulation, with a maximum release achieved for Cs-BzimTD-CMC.

Enhanced Antimicrobial, Cytotoxicity, Larvicidal, and Repellence Activities of Brown Algae, Cystoseira crinita-Mediated Green Synthesis of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles

Herein, the metabolites secreted by brown algae, Cystoseira crinita, were used as biocatalyst for green synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-NPs). The fabricated MgO-NPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy linked with energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Data showed successful formation of crystallographic and spherical MgO-NPs with sizes of 3–18 nm at a maximum surface plasmon resonance of 320 nm. Moreover, EDX analysis confirms the presence of Mg and O in the sample with weight percentages of 54.1% and 20.6%, respectively. Phyco-fabricated MgO-NPs showed promising activities against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and Candida albicans with MIC values ranging between 12.5 and 50 μg mL⁻¹. The IC₅₀ value of MgO-NPs against cancer cell lines (Caco-2) was 113.4 μg mL⁻¹, whereas it was 141.2 μg mL⁻¹ for normal cell lines (Vero cell). Interestingly, the green synthesized MgO-NPs exhibited significant larvicidal and pupicidal activity against Musca domestica. At 10 μg mL⁻¹ MgO-NPs, the highest mortality percentages were 99.0%, 95.0%, 92.2%, and 81.0% for I, II, III instars’ larvae, and pupa of M. domestica, respectively, with LC₅₀ values (3.08, 3.49, and 4.46 μg mL⁻¹), and LC₉₀ values (7.46, 8.89, and 10.43 μg mL⁻¹), respectively. Also, MgO-NPs showed repellence activity for adults of M. domestica at 10 μg mL⁻¹ with 63.0%, 77.9%, 84.9%, and 96.8% after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively.

Multi-Biofunctional Properties of Phytofabricated Selenium Nanoparticles From Carica papaya Fruit Extract: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antimycotoxin, Anticancer, and Biocompatibility

The present study focused on phytofabrication of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) from Carica papaya extract and exploration of their multi-biofunctional features. Total phenolics and flavonoids of C. papaya fruit extract were determined as 23.30 ± 1.88 mg gallic acid equivalents and 19.21 ± 0.44 mg quercetin equivalents per gram, respectively, which suggested that C. papaya fruit extract could be a competitive reducing and stabilizing agent during phytofabrication of nanoparticles. UV–Vis and FTIR spectroscopy showed the formation of SeNPs from sodium selenite, which could be related to the reducing and stabilizing activities of C. papaya fruit extract. The SeNPs were found to be stable with a Zeta potential of −32 mV. The average hydrodynamic size of SeNPs was found as 159 nm by dynamic light scattering. The SeNPs showed a broader XRD pattern with no sharp Bragg’s peaks and found to be amorphous. SEM showed that SeNPs were spherical in shape and EDX pattern showed that SeNPs were made up of Se (71.81%), C (11.41%), and O (14.88%). The HR-TEM picture showed that SeNPs were spherical in morphology and have a size range of 101–137 nm. The SeNPs exhibited potent antioxidant activity and their EC50 values (effective concentration required to inhibit 50% of radicals) were 45.65 ± 2.01 and 43.06 ± 3.80 μg/ml in DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. The antimicrobial action of SeNPs was found as a broad spectrum and suppressed microbial pathogens in ascending order: fungi &gt; Gram-positive bacteria &gt; Gram-negative bacteria. The SeNPs have been demonstrated to reduce the growth and ochratoxin A (OTA) of mycotoxigenic Aspergillus ochraceus and Penicillium verrucosum at 40 μg/ml in broth culture, which is noteworthy. The SeNPs reduced cancer cell proliferation (RAW 264.7, Caco-2, MCF-7, and IMR-32) more preferentially than normal cells (Vero), found to be highly biocompatible. Lower doses of SeNPs (up to 50 μg/ml) were shown to be less toxic and did not cause death in Danio rerio (zebrafish) embryos, implying that lower doses of SeNPs could be beneficial for biological purposes. The present study concluded that phytofabricated SeNPs have multiple biofunctional properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimycotoxin, and anticancer activities, as well as high biocompatibility.

Green Synthesis and Potential Antibacterial Applications of Bioactive Silver Nanoparticles: A Review

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using biological resources is the most facile, economical, rapid, and environmentally friendly method that mitigates the drawbacks of chemical and physical methods. Various biological resources such as plants and their different parts, bacteria, fungi, algae, etc. could be utilized for the green synthesis of bioactive AgNPs. In recent years, several green approaches for non-toxic, rapid, and facile synthesis of AgNPs using biological resources have been reported. Plant extract contains various biomolecules, including flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and vitamins that act as reducing and capping agents during the biosynthesis process. Similarly, microorganisms produce different primary and secondary metabolites that play a crucial role as reducing and capping agents during synthesis. Biosynthesized AgNPs have gained significant attention from the researchers because of their potential applications in different fields of biomedical science. The widest application of AgNPs is their bactericidal activity. Due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant microorganisms, researchers are exploring the therapeutic abilities of AgNPs as potential antibacterial agents. Already, various reports have suggested that biosynthesized AgNPs have exhibited significant antibacterial action against numerous human pathogens. Because of their small size and large surface area, AgNPs have the ability to easily penetrate bacterial cell walls, damage cell membranes, produce reactive oxygen species, and interfere with DNA replication as well as protein synthesis, and result in cell death. This paper provides an overview of the green, facile, and rapid synthesis of AgNPs using biological resources and antibacterial use of biosynthesized AgNPs, highlighting their antibacterial mechanisms.

The Potency of Fungal-Fabricated Selenium Nanoparticles to Improve the Growth Performance of Helianthus annuus L. and Control of Cutworm Agrotis ipsilon

The application of green nanotechnology in agriculture has been receiving substantial attention, especially in the development of new nano-fertilizers and nano-insecticides. Herein, the metabolites secreted by the fungal strain Penicillium chrysogenum are used as a reducing agent for selenium ions to form selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs). The synthesized Se-NPs were characterized using color change, UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The biomass filtrate of the fungal strain changed from colorless to a ruby red color after mixing with sodium selenite with a maximum surface plasmon resonance at 262 nm. Data exhibits the successful formation of spherical, amorphous Se-NPs with sizes ranging between 3–15 nm and a weight percentage of 38.52%. The efficacy of Se-NPs on the growth performance of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) and inhibition of cutworm Agrotis ipsilon was investigated. The field experiment revealed the potentiality of Se-NPs to enhance the growth parameters and carotenoid content in sunflower, especially at 20 ppm. The chlorophylls, carbohydrates, proteins, phenolic compounds, and free proline contents were markedly promoted in response to Se-NPs concentrations. The antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and polyphenol oxidase) were significantly decreased compared with the control. Data analysis showed that the highest mortality for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th instar larvae of Agrotis ipsilon was achieved at 25 ppm with percentages of 89.7 ± 0.3, 78.3 ± 0.3, 72.3 ± 0.6, 63.7 ± 0.3, and 68.7 ± 0.3 respectively after 72 h.

Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Their Activity against Pathogenic Microbes and Common House Mosquito, Culex pipiens

The synthesis of nanoparticles by green approaches is gaining unique importance due to its low cost, biocompatibility, high productivity, and purity, and being environmentally friendly. Herein, biomass filtrate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from mangrove rhizosphere sediment was used for the biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). The bacterial isolate was identified based on morphological, physiological, and 16S rRNA. The bio-fabricated ZnO-NPs were characterized using color change, UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, TEM, and XRD analyses. In the current study, spherical and crystalline nature ZnO-NPs were successfully formed at a maximum SPR (surface plasmon resonance) of 380 nm. The bioactivities of fabricated ZnO-NPs including antibacterial, anti-candida, and larvicidal efficacy were investigated. Data analysis showed that these bioactivities were concentration-dependent. The green-synthesized ZnO-NPs exhibited high efficacy against pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and unicellular fungi (Candida albicans) with inhibition zones of (12.33 ± 0.9 and 29.3 ± 0.3 mm), (19.3 ± 0.3 and 11.7 ± 0.3 mm), and (22.3 ± 0.3 mm), respectively, at 200 ppm. The MIC value was detected as 50 ppm for E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. albicans, and 200 ppm for S. aureus and P. aeruginosa with zones of inhibition ranging between 11.7 ± 0.3-14.6 ± 0.6 mm. Moreover, the biosynthesized ZnO-NPs showed high mortality for Culex pipiens with percentages of 100 ± 0.0% at 200 ppm after 24 h as compared with zinc acetate (44.3 ± 3.3%) at the same concentration and the same time.

The Catalytic Activity of Biosynthesized Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles (MgO-NPs) for Inhibiting the Growth of Pathogenic Microbes, Tanning Effluent Treatment, and Chromium Ion Removal

Magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-NPs) were synthesized using the fungal strain Aspergillus terreus S1 to overcome the disadvantages of chemical and physical methods. The factors affecting the biosynthesis process were optimized as follows: concentration of Mg(NO3)2·6H2O precursor (3 mM), contact time (36 min), pH (8), and incubation temperature (35 °C). The characterization of biosynthesized MgO-NPs was accomplished using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy—energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Data confirmed the successful formation of crystallographic, spherical, well-dispersed MgO-NPs with a size range of 8.0–38.0 nm at a maximum surface plasmon resonance of 280 nm. The biological activities of biosynthesized MgO-NPs including antimicrobial activity, biotreatment of tanning effluent, and chromium ion removal were investigated. The highest growth inhibition of pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans was achieved at 200 μg mL–1 of MgO-NPs. The biosynthesized MgO-NPs exhibited high efficacy to decolorize the tanning effluent (96.8 ± 1.7% after 150 min at 1.0 µg mL–1) and greatly decrease chemical parameters including total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and conductivity with percentages of 98.04, 98.3, 89.1, 97.2, and 97.7%, respectively. Further, the biosynthesized MgO-NPs showed a strong potential to remove chromium ions from the tanning effluent, from 835.3 mg L–1 to 21.0 mg L–1, with a removal percentage of 97.5%.

Eco-friendly Mycogenic Synthesis of ZnO and CuO Nanoparticles for In Vitro Antibacterial, Antibiofilm, and Antifungal Applications

Mycogenic synthesis of medically applied zinc oxide (ZnO) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) were exploited using Penicillium chrysogenum. The biogenesis and capping processes of the produced nano-metals were conducted by functional fungal extracellular enzymes and proteins. The obtained ZnO-NPs and CuO-NPs were characterized. Also, the antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of ZnO-NPs and CuO-NPs were determined. Also, antibiofilm and antifungal activities were investigated. Results have demonstrated the ability of the bio-secreted proteins to cape and reduce ZnO and CuO to hexagonal and spherical ZnO-NPs and CuO-NPs with particle size at 9.0-35.0 nm and 10.5-59.7 nm, respectively. Both ZnO-NPs and CuO-NPs showed high antimicrobial activities not only against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria but also against some phytopathogenic fungal strains. Besides this, those NPs showed varied antibiofilm effects against different microorganisms. Quantitative and qualitative analyses indicated that CuO-NPs had an effective antibiofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus and therefore can be applied in diverse medical devices. Thus, the mycogenic green synthesized ZnO-NPs and CuO-NPs have the potential as smart nano-materials to be used in the medical field to limit the spread of some pathogenic microbes.

Antibacterial, Antifungal and Antibiofilm Activities of Silver Nanoparticles Supported by Crude Bioactive Metabolites of Bionanofactories Isolated from Lake Mariout

Lake Mariout is one of the polluted coastal marine ecosystems in Egypt which is considered to be a reservoir of serious effluents from different anthropogenic activities. Such selective pressure enforces indigenous microbial populations to acquire new advantageous themes. Thus, in this study, two Streptomyces strains were screened, from Lake Mariout's sediment for bioreduction of 5 mM AgNO3. Both strains were identified molecularly; their biochemical and physiological characterization revealed their ability to secrete bioactive metabolites with antagonistic activity. The cultural and incubation conditions influencing AgNPs productivity were evaluated. Subsequently, the physicochemical properties of the biofabricated AgNPs were pursued. UV-Vis spectroscopy detected surface plasmon resonance at range 458-422 nm. XRD indicated crystalline, pure, face-centered cubic AgNPs; EDX demonstrated strong silver signal at 3.5 keV. Besides, FT-IR and TGA analysis unveiled self-stabilization and functionalization of AgNPs by bioorganic molecules. However, electron microscopy micrographs depicted numerous uniform spherical AgNPs (1.17-13.3 nm). Potent bactericidal and fungicide activity were recorded by zone of inhibition assay at 50 μg/mL. Further, the antibiofilm activity was exerted in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the conjugation of AgNPs with the crude bioactive metabolites of both bionanofactories ameliorated the antimicrobial potency, reflecting a synergistic efficiency versus examined pathogens (free-living and biofilm).

An Eco-Friendly Approach to the Control of Pathogenic Microbes and Anopheles stephensi Malarial Vector Using Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles (Mg-NPs) Fabricated by Penicillium chrysogenum

The discovery of eco-friendly, rapid, and cost-effective compounds to control diseases caused by microbes and insects are the main challenges. Herein, the magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-NPs) are successfully fabricated by harnessing the metabolites secreted by Penicillium chrysogenum. The fabricated MgO-NPs were characterized using UV-Vis, XRD, TEM, DLS, EDX, FT-IR, and XPS analyses. Data showed the successful formation of crystallographic, spherical, well-dispersed MgO-NPs with sizes of 7-40 nm at a maximum wavelength of 250 nm. The EDX analysis confirms the presence of Mg and O ions as the main components with weight percentages of 13.62% and 7.76%, respectively. The activity of MgO-NPs as an antimicrobial agent was investigated against pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, and exhibited zone of inhibitions of 12.0 ± 0.0, 12.7 ± 0.9, 23.3 ± 0.8, 17.7 ± 1.6, and 14.7 ± 0.6 mm respectively, at 200 µg mL-1. The activity is decreased by decreasing the MgO-NPs concentration. The biogenic MgO-NPs exhibit high efficacy against different larvae instar and pupa of Anopheles stephensi, with LC50 values of 12.5-15.5 ppm for I-IV larvae instar and 16.5 ppm for the pupa. Additionally, 5 mg/cm2 of MgO-NPs showed the highest protection percentages against adults of Anopheles stephensi, with values of 100% for 150 min and 67.6% ± 1.4% for 210 min.

Rhizopus oryzae-Mediated Green Synthesis of Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles (MgO-NPs): A Promising Tool for Antimicrobial, Mosquitocidal Action, and Tanning Effluent Treatment

The metabolites of the fungal strain Rhizopus oryaze were used as a biocatalyst for the green-synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO-NPs). The production methodology was optimized to attain the maximum productivity as follows: 4 mM of precursor, at pH 8, incubation temperature of 35 °C, and reaction time of 36 h between metabolites and precursor. The as-formed MgO-NPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, TEM, SEM-EDX, XRD, DLS, FT-IR, and XPS analyses. These analytical techniques proved to gain crystalline, homogenous, and well-dispersed spherical MgO-NPs with an average size of 20.38 ± 9.9 nm. The potentiality of MgO-NPs was dose- and time-dependent. The biogenic MgO-NPs was found to be a promising antimicrobial agent against the pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans with inhibition zones of 10.6 ± 0.4, 11.5 ± 0.5, 13.7 ± 0.5, 14.3 ± 0.7, and 14.7 ± 0.6 mm, respectively, at 200 μg mL-1. Moreover, MgO-NPs manifested larvicidal and adult repellence activity against Culex pipiens at very low concentrations. The highest decolorization percentages of tanning effluents were 95.6 ± 1.6% at 100 µg/ 100 mL after 180 min. At this condition, the physicochemical parameters of tannery effluents, including TSS, TDS, BOD, COD, and conductivity were reduced with percentages of 97.9%, 98.2%, 87.8%, 95.9%, and 97.3%, respectively. Moreover, the chromium ion was adsorbed with percentages of 98.2% at optimum experimental conditions.

Harnessing Bacterial Endophytes for Promotion of Plant Growth and Biotechnological Applications: An Overview

Endophytic bacteria colonize plants and live inside them for part of or throughout their life without causing any harm or disease to their hosts. The symbiotic relationship improves the physiology, fitness, and metabolite profile of the plants, while the plants provide food and shelter for the bacteria. The bacteria-induced alterations of the plants offer many possibilities for biotechnological, medicinal, and agricultural applications. The endophytes promote plant growth and fitness through the production of phytohormones or biofertilizers, or by alleviating abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. Strengthening of the plant immune system and suppression of disease are associated with the production of novel antibiotics, secondary metabolites, siderophores, and fertilizers such as nitrogenous or other industrially interesting chemical compounds. Endophytic bacteria can be used for phytoremediation of environmental pollutants or the control of fungal diseases by the production of lytic enzymes such as chitinases and cellulases, and their huge host range allows a broad spectrum of applications to agriculturally and pharmaceutically interesting plant species. More recently, endophytic bacteria have also been used to produce nanoparticles for medical and industrial applications. This review highlights the biotechnological possibilities for bacterial endophyte applications and proposes future goals for their application.

Apoptotic Effect and Anticancer Activity of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Marine Algae Chaetomorpha linum Extract Against Human Colon Cancer Cell HCT-116

The green approach of nanoparticle synthesis has gained more attention by researchers because of its nontoxic, eco-friendly, biocompatible, and sustainable nature. The present research investigated the anticancer effectiveness of silver nanoparticles synthesized from marine algae Chaetomorpha linum (C. linum) against colon cancer cell HCT-116 in vitro. Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (C-AgNPs) are characterized using UV-spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We demonstrated the dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of C-AgNPs in human colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT-116) using MTT assay. The apoptosis induction in HCT-116 cells caused by C-AgNPs has studied fluorescence microscope by staining with fluorogenic agents 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI), rhodamine 123, and 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H₂DCFDA). By using a flow cytometric test, the apoptotic action of C-AgNPs was performed. The immunoblotting study of caspases, as well as pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic protein expression, was studied using the PCR technique to understand the underlying molecular mechanism of C-AgNPs on cancer cells. The apoptotic studies showed an increase in the expression of apoptotic caspase 3, caspase 9, BH3-interacting domain death agonist (Bid), and Bax, along with a decrease in the anti-apoptotic protein like Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, thereby veritably confirmed by immunoblotting and qPCR technique. The biosynthesized C-AgNPs was an efficient anticancer agent that can induce apoptosis in the HCT-116 colon cells.

Efficacy Assessment of Biosynthesized Copper Oxide Nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) on Stored Grain Insects and Their Impacts on Morphological and Physiological Traits of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Plant

Herein, CuO-NPs were fabricated by harnessing metabolites of Aspergillus niger strain (G3-1) and characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, XRD, TEM, SEM-EDX, FT-IR, and XPS. Spherical, crystallographic CuO-NPs were synthesized in sizes ranging from 14.0 to 47.4 nm, as indicated by TEM and XRD. EDX and XPS confirmed the presence of Cu and O with weight percentages of 62.96% and 22.93%, respectively, at varied bending energies. FT-IR spectra identified functional groups of metabolites that could act as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents to the CuO-NPs. The insecticidal activity of CuO-NPs against wheat grain insects Sitophilus granarius and Rhyzopertha dominica was dose- and time-dependent. The mortality percentages due to NP treatment were 55-94.4% (S. granarius) and 70-90% (R. dominica). A botanical experiment was done in a randomized block design. Low CuO-NP concentration (50 ppm) caused significant increases in growth characteristics (shoot and root length, fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, and leaves number), photosynthetic pigments (total chlorophylls and carotenoids), and antioxidant enzymes of wheat plants. There was no significant change in carbohydrate or protein content. The use of CuO-NPs is a promising tool to control grain insects and enhance wheat growth performance.

The Efficacy of Silver Nitrate (AgNO3) as a Coating Agent to Protect Paper against High Deteriorating Microbes

This study focuses on the efficacy of silver nitrate (AgNO3) as a coating agent used to preserve papers against microbial deterioration. To this end, the in vitro cytotoxicity of AgNO3 was assessed against two normal cell lines, WI-38 and HFB-4, to detect a safe dose that can be used as a coating agent, which was 80 µg mL−1. Bacillus subtilis B3 and Penicillium chrysogenum F9 were selected as high deteriorating microbes, previously isolated from a historical manuscript dating back to 1677 A.-D. The microbial growth inhibition, color change, mechanical properties, and cellulosic fibers of untreated/treated papers were evaluated. The data showed the efficacy of AgNO3 to inhibit the growth of B. subtilis with a percentage of 100% after 7 days, while it inhibits the growth of P. chrysogenum with a percentage of 85.9 ± 1.1% after 21 days. The color and mechanical properties of treated paper in the presence/absence of microbial inoculation were slightly changed, although they changed greatly due to microbial growth in the absence of AgNO3. The EDX analysis confirmed the successful adsorption of Ag-ion on papers, with a weight percentage of 1.9%. The cellulosic fibers of untreated paper in the presence of microbial growth were highly deteriorated as compared with treated and standard filter paper (shown by FT-IR and SEM).

Bactericidal and In-Vitro Cytotoxic Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) Fabricated by Endophytic Actinomycetes and Their Use as Coating for the Textile Fabrics

An endophytic strain of Streptomyces antimycoticus L-1 was isolated from healthy medicinal plant leaves of Mentha longifolia L. and used for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs), through the use of secreted enzymes and proteins. UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyses of the Ag-NPs were carried out. The XRD, TEM, and FT-IR analysis results demonstrated the successful biosynthesis of crystalline, spherical Ag-NPs with a particle size of 13-40 nm. Further, the stability of the Ag-NPs was assessed by detecting the surface Plasmon resonance (SPR) at 415 nm for one month or by measuring the NPs surface charge (-19.2 mV) by zeta potential analysis (ζ). The green-synthesized Ag-NPs exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity at different concentrations (6.25-100 ppm) against the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium with a clear inhibition zone ranging from (9.5 ± 0.4) nm to (21.7 ± 1.0) mm. Furthermore, the green-synthesized Ag-NPs displayed high efficacy against the Caco-2 cancerous cell line (the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) = 5.7 ± 0.2 ppm). With respect to antibacterial and in-vitro cytotoxicity analyses, the Ag-NPs concentration of 100 ppm was selected as a safe dose for loading onto cotton fabrics. The scanning electron microscopy connected with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) for the nano-finished fabrics showed the distribution of Ag-NPs as 2% of the total fabric elements. Moreover, the nano-finished fabrics exhibited more activity against pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, even after 10 washing cycles, indicating the stability of the treated fabrics.

Endophytic Streptomyces laurentii Mediated Green Synthesis of Ag-NPs with Antibacterial and Anticancer Properties for Developing Functional Textile Fabric Properties

Improvement of the medical textile industry has received more attention recently, especially with widespread of microbial and viral infections. Medical textiles with new properties, such as bacterial pathogens self-cleaning, have been explored with nanotechnology. In this study, an endophytic actinomycetes strain of Streptomyces laurentii R-1 was isolated from the roots of the medicinal plant Achillea fragrantissima. This is used as a catalyst for the mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) for applications in the textile industry. The biosynthesized Ag-NPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), which confirmed the successful formation of crystalline, spherical metal nanoparticles. The biosynthesized Ag-NPs exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Our data elucidated that the biosynthesized Ag-NPs had a highly cytotoxic effect against the cancerous caco-2 cell line. The selected safe dose of Ag-NPs for loading on cotton fabrics was 100 ppm, regarding their antibacterial activity and safe cytotoxic efficacy. Interestingly, scanning electron microscope connected with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) of loaded cotton fabrics demonstrated the smooth distribution of Ag-NPs on treated fabrics. The obtained results highlighted the broad-spectrum activity of nano-finished fabrics against pathogenic bacteria, even after 5 and 10 washing cycles. This study contributes a suitable guide for the performance of green synthesized NPs for utilization in different biotechnological sectors.

Optimization of green biosynthesized visible light active CuO/ZnO nano-photocatalysts for the degradation of organic methylene blue dye

Herein, CuO/ZnO nanocomposites at different ratios were successfully synthesized through a green biosynthesis approach. This was performed by harnessing the fungal-secreted enzymes and proteins during the sol-gel process for nanocomposites seed growth. All fabricated nanoparticles/nanocomposites were characterized using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDX) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. The photocatalytic degradation efficacy of the synthesized nanocomposites was evaluated using a cationic methylene blue (MB) dye as a model of reaction. Results obtained from the FT-IR and EDX analyses revealed that CuO-NPs, ZnO-NPs, CuO/ZnO50/50, CuO/ZnO80/20, and CuO/ZnO20/80 were successfully prepared by harnessing the biomass filtrate of Penicillium corylophilum As-1. Furthermore, XRD and TEM revealed the variation in the particle size of the nanocomposites (10-55 nm) with the ratio of the nanoparticles. Notably, the size of the nanocomposites was proportionally increased with an increasing ratio of ZnO-NPs. XPS analysis affirmed the presence of both Cu and Zn in the nanocomposites with varying binding energies compared with individual nanoparticles. Furthermore, a high photo-degradation efficacy was achieved by increasing the ratio of ZnO-NPs in the nanocomposite formulation, and 97% of organic MB dye was removed after 85 min of irradiation using the CuO/ZnO20/80 nanocomposite.

Multifunctional properties of spherical silver nanoparticles fabricated by different microbial taxa

This study addresses the impacts of metabolites from different microbial taxa on the fabrication and multifunctional biological properties of spherical silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). Three microbial taxa, a bacterial (Bacillus cereus A1-5), actinomycetes (Streptomyces noursei H1-1), and fungal (Rhizopus stolonifer A6-2) strains were used for Ag-NPs biosynthesis, whereas Streptomyces noursei is demonstrated for the first time. These isolates were identified using either 16S rRNA or ITS gene sequencing. Characterization of Ag-NPs was done using color change analysis, Uv-Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, XRD, TEM, SEM-EDX, DLS, and Zeta potential analysis. All biosynthesized NPs exhibited spherical shape with different sizes ranged from 6‒50 nm, 6-30 nm and 6-40 nm for NPs obtained by A1-5, H1-1 and A6-2, respectively. The crystalline center cubic face of Ag-NPs was confirmed using XRD at 2θ values 38.08o, 44.27o, 64.41o and 77.36o. FT-IR analysis revealed varied intense absorption peaks for biomolecules required for NPs synthesize by each microbial strain. The stability of spherical Ag-NPs was confirmed due to highly DLS negative surface charge of ‒17.5mV, ‒18.9mV, and ‒15.6mV for NPs synthesized by strains A1-5, H1-1, and A6-2, respectively. Ag-NPs exhibited a broadspectrum of antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with varied effectiveness. They also exhibited a cytotoxic effect against cancer cell line (caco-2) in a dose-dependent pattern with IC50 of 8.9 ± 0.5, 5.6 ± 3.0, 11.2 ± 0.5 μg/ml for NPs synthesized by strains A1-5, H1-1, and A6-2, respectively. Moreover, these spherical Ag-NPs showed larvicidal activity against the 3rd instar larvae of the dengue vector Aedes aegypti.