Work

Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Sida cuneifolia leaf extract for enhanced antibacterial, cytotoxic, and anti-biofilm activities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the global threats that needs to be addressed. Nanotechnology represents a promising way to address this issue due to its multifaceted mode of action. This study aimed to synthesize and evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties of silver nanoparticles using S . cuneifolia leaves extract. The formation and properties of AgNPs were characterized using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer, an FT-IR spectrophotometer, TEM, and XRD. Disc diffusion and MIC were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of AgNPs towards E. coli , S. flexneri , and S. aureus . The antibacterial action of silver NPs was observed using SEM, and cytotoxicity was assessed using the hemolysis assay. The anti-biofilm was evaluated against E. coli and S. aureus . From the results obtained, a sharp peak in the UV–Vis spectra centered at 419 nm was associated with AgNPs, while the sharp, distinct peaks in the powder diffractograms were linked to the face-centered cubic (fcc) of crystalline AgNPs. TEM micrographs confirmed their spherical morphology, with dimensions varying from 4 to 31 nm. The nanoparticles showed significant antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities against the tested isolates. Additionally, SEM confirmed that they could destroy the cell membrane and cause death. The biocompatibility of the synthesized AgNPs was safe at 100 μg/mL. Therefore, S. cuneifolia leaf extract has the potential to be an environmentally friendly substitute for the fabrication of Ag nanoparticles. The findings reveal that the synthesized nanoparticles could serve as a secure and effective alternative for addressing AMR.

Source: Biotechnology Notes

DOI: 10.1016/j.biotno.2025.07.003

Authors: Motasim Ismael, Madivoli Edwin, Khayeli Juliah

Institutions: University of Nyala, Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Nanoparticles: synthesis and applications

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $700