In vitro mutagenic and anti‐mutagenic properties of green synthesised silver nanoparticles

This study is aimed at determining the mutagenic and anti‐mutagenic properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesised from Streptomyces griseorubens AU2. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study about the investigation of these properties for biogenic AgNPs bacterially synthesised. The mutagenic and anti‐mutagenic potencies were determined by the Ames Salmonella /microsome mutagenicity test using Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains. After determining the cytotoxic dose of green synthesised AgNPs against S. typhimurium TA98 and TA100 strains, subcytotoxic doses (250, 100 and 50 µg/plate) were used in the assays. Biogenic AgNPs at the tested concentrations exhibited no mutagenic effects in the mutagenicity test conducted with the test strains. Moderate anti‐mutagenic effects were observed at high test concentrations. The concentration of 250 µg/plate showed the strongest anti‐mutagenic activity on S. typhimurium TA98. The results did not indicate any mutagenic effect against either of the strains used for screening the mutagenicity of the biogenic AgNPs as they were found to be genotoxically safe. It can be concluded that biogenic AgNPs showed great anti‐mutagenic attributes, standing as a significant factor with respect to medical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.Inspec keywords: biomedical materials, microorganisms, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, silver, toxicologyOther keywords: in vitro mutagenic properties, in vitro antimutagenic properties, green synthesised silver nanoparticles, Streptomyces griseorubens AU2, biogenic silver nanoparticle biosynthesis, microsome mutagenicity test, Salmonella typhimurium TA98 strains, Salmonella typhimurium TA100 strains, subcytotoxic doses, medical industries, pharmaceutical industries, cosmetic industries, Ag     

Antifungal effect of green synthesised silver nanoparticles against Setosphaeria turcica

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is an interesting issue of the nanoscience and nanotechnology due to their unique properties. In the present study, Ginkgo biloba L. leaf extract was used to synthesise AgNPs. The effects of quantity of leaves, concentration of Ag nitrate (AgNO₃), reaction temperature, and pH were studied to discover the optimal synthesis system. In addition, antifungal effect of AgNPs against Setosphaeria turcica was measured through inhibition zone method. The optimal biosynthesis system contained 15 g of leaf, 8 mM AgNO₃, and 80°C at pH 9.0. Under mentioned conditions, the resulting synthesised NPs were nearly spherical, with an average size of 14 nm. In tests, AgNPs synthesised at different pH resulted in different inhibition zones, diameters increased gradually at pH from 3.0 to 11.0, while antifungal effect reached maximum at 9.0. Results of this study offer a new approach for biological control plant pathogenic fungi, and it has potential application for screening novel fungistats with high efficiency and low toxicity.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, silver, nanoparticles, nanobiotechnology, pHOther keywords: antifungal effect, green synthesised silver nanoparticles, Setosphaeria turcica, nanoscience, nanotechnology, Ginkgo biloba L. leaf extract, reaction temperature, pH, inhibition zone method, inhibition zones, mass 15 g, temperature 80 degC, size 14 nm, Ag     

Evaluation of anti‐bacterial activity of silver nanoparticles synthesised by coprophilous fungus PM0651419

The study explored biological synthesis of metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from the less explored non‐pathogenic coprophilous fungus, sterile mycelium, PM0651419 and evaluates the antimicrobial efficacy of biosynthesised AgNPs when impregnated in wound fabrics and in combination with six antimicrobial agents. AgNPs alone proved to be potent antibacterial agents and in combination they enhanced the antibacterial activity and spectrum of antibacterials used in the study against a microbiologically diverse battery of Gram positive, Gram negative and multidrug‐resistant bacteria. AgNPs impregnated on the wound dressings established their antibacterial activity by significantly reducing the bacterial load of pathogenic bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis e stablishing potential as effective antimicrobial wound dressings for treatment of polymicrobial wound infections. This study presents the first report on the potential of biosynthesis of AgNPs from the under explored class of coprophilous fungi. Their promise to be used in wound dressings and as potent antibacterials alone and in combination is evaluatedInspec keywords: silver, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, biomedical materials, microorganisms, antibacterial activity, wounds, fabricsOther keywords: antibacterial activity, coprophilous fungus PM0651419, biological synthesis, metallic silver nanoparticles, nonpathogenic coprophilous fungus, sterile mycelium, antimicrobial efficacy, biosynthesised AgNPs, wound fabrics, microbiologically diverse battery, Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria, multidrug‐resistant bacteria, wound dressings, bacterial load, pathogenic bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, polymicrobial wound infections, Ag     

Removal of toxic zinc from water/wastewater using eucalyptus seeds activated carbon: non‐linear regression analysis

In the present study, a novel activated carbon was prepared from low‐cost eucalyptus seeds, which was utilised for the effectively removal of toxic zinc from the water/wastewater. The prepared adsorbent was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopic characterisation studies. Adsorption process was experimentally performed for optimising the influencing factors such as adsorbent dosage, solution pH, contact time, initial zinc concentration, and temperature for the maximum removal of zinc from aqueous solution. Adsorption isotherm of zinc removal was ensued Freundlich model, and the kinetic model ensued pseudo‐second order model. Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacity of the adsorbent for zinc removal was evaluated as 80.37 mg/g. The results of the thermodynamic studies suggested that the adsorption process was exothermic, thermodynamically feasible and impulsive process. Finally, a batch adsorber was planned to remove zinc from known volume and known concentration of wastewater using best obeyed model such as Freundlich. The experimental details showed the newly prepared material can be effectively utilised as a cheap material for the adsorption of toxic metal ions from the contaminated water.Inspec keywords: wastewater treatment, activated carbon, zinc, toxicology, regression analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscopy, adsorption, pH, reaction kinetics, monolayers, thermodynamics, contaminationOther keywords: Zn, toxic metal ion adsorption, contaminated water, batch adsorber, exothermic process, thermodynamic process, Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacity, pseudosecond‐order model, kinetic model, Freundlich model, adsorption isotherm, aqueous solution, temperature value, initial zinc concentration, contact time, pH value, adsorbent dosage, scanning electron microscopic characterisation, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nonlinear regression analysis, eucalyptus seed activated carbon, wastewater, toxic zinc removal     

Effects of surface sterilisation with green synthesised silver nanoparticles on Lamiaceae seeds

Nanoparticles have been used in many areas of biotechnology. In this study, an alternative surface sterilisation method was established for plant tissue cultures. Silver nanoparticles synthesised via green synthesis were used for the surface sterilisation of Lamiaceae seeds (Salvia farinecae, Ocimum basilicum – Large Leaf Italian, Thymus vulgaris, Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens). Water extracts of dried Alkanna tinctorum rhizomes and Syzygium aromaticum flowers were utilised in the bioreduction of silver ions. The seeds were exposed to 0, 1, 7, 14 and 28 day‐old colloidal solutions of silver nanoparticles and their effects on germination and surface sterilisation were determined. Fresh (0 and 1 day‐old) colloidal solutions of silver nanoparticles were found very effective on surface sterilisation (100%). Moreover, they showed no negative effect on both germination and morphology of plantlets. It was shown that silver nanoparticles can be used as a surface sterilisation agent and they have no adverse effects on seed germination and in vitro plantlet growth.Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, microorganisms, sterilisation (microbiological), silver, nanofabrication, antibacterial activity, colloids, nanobiotechnology, agricultureOther keywords: green synthesised silver nanoparticles, Lamiaceae seeds, silver ions, surface sterilisation agent, seed germination, colloidal solutions, surface sterilisation method, Ag     

Antimicrobial potential and in vitro cytotoxicity study of polyvinyl pyrollidone‐stabilised silver nanoparticles synthesised from Lysinibacillus boronitolerans

The main emphasis herein is on the eco‐friendly synthesis and assessment of the antimicrobial potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and a cytotoxicity study. Silver nanoparticles were synthesised by an extracellular method using bacterial supernatant. Biosynthesised silver nanoparticles were characterised by UV‐vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential analysis. The synthesised silver nanoparticles exhibited a characteristic peak at 420 nm. TEM analysis depicted the spherical shape and approximately 20 nm size of nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles carry a charge of −33.75 mV, which confirms their stability. Biogenic polyvinyl pyrrolidone‐coated AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial effects against all opportunistic pathogens (Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, and fungi). Silver nanoparticles equally affect the growth of both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, with a maximum inhibition zone observed at 22 mm and a minimum at 13 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Fusarium graminearum, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AgNPs against P. aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus was recorded at between 15 and 20 μg/ml. Synthesised nanoparticles exhibited a significant synergistic effect in combination with conventional antibiotics. Cytotoxicity estimates using C2C12 skeletal muscle cell line via 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test and lactate dehydrogenase assay were directly related to the concentration of AgNPs and length of exposure. On the basis of the MTT test, the IC50 of AgNPs for the C2C12 cell line was approximately 5.45 μg/ml concentration after 4 h exposure.     

Functional group‐assisted green synthesised superparamagnetic nanoparticles for the rapid removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solution

Superparamagnetic nanoparticles (NPs) prepared using the capping agent derived from the Lantana camara fruit extract were used to study the adsorption of chromium ions. Characterisation techniques such as scanning electron microscope, energy‐dispersive X‐ray, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometer and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to study the NP features and adsorption mechanisms. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity calculated from the Langmuir isotherm was found to be 41 mg/g. The chemical nature of the adsorption is confirmed with the results of Dubinin–Radushkevich model and thermodynamic studies. In addition, thermodynamically favourable and spontaneous adsorption is considered to be a good indication for the removal of metal ions. Out of the kinetic models investigated, the experiments exhibited the best fit to pseudo‐second‐order model, advocating for surface‐based adsorption, involving both physical and chemical interactions. It is also significant to note that 85% of the adsorption occurs in the first 10 min, and hence the selected adsorbent is also claimed for rapid removal of metal ions. The newly synthesised adsorbent hence possesses remarkable properties in terms of simple synthesising technique, low cost, rapid uptake and improved efficiency without generating harmful byproducts.Inspec keywords: superparamagnetism, nanoparticles, magnetic particles, nanofabrication, nanomagnetics, adsorption, chromium, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray chemical analysis, magnetometry, thermodynamic propertiesOther keywords: functional group‐assisted green synthesis, superparamagnetic nanoparticles, hexavalent chromium ions, aqueous solution, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra, X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry, TGA, Dubinin‐Radushkevich model, thermodynamic model, Langmuir isotherm, monolayer adsorption capacity, surface‐based adsorption, pseudosecond‐order adsorption model, chemical interactions, physical interactions, Cr     

Ecotoxicity of as‐synthesised copper nanoparticles on soil bacteria

Release of metallic nanoparticles in soil poses a serious threat to the ecosystem as they can affect the soil properties and impose toxicity on soil microbes that are involved in the biogeochemical cycling. In this work, in vitro ecotoxicity of as‐synthesised copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on Bacillus subtilis (MTCC No. 441) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (MTCC No. 1749), which are commonly present in soil was investigated. Three sets of colloidal CuNPs with identical physical properties were synthesised by chemical reduction method with per batch yield of 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 gm. Toxicity of CuNPs against these soil bacteria was investigated by MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration), MBC (minimum bactericidal concentration), cytoplasmic leakage and ROS (reactive oxygen species) assay. MIC of CuNPs were in the range of 35–60 µg/ml and 35–55 µg/ml for B. subtilis and P. fluorescens respectively, while their MBC ranged from 40–70 µg/ml and 40–60 µg/ml respectively. MIC and MBC tests reveal that Gram‐negative P. fluorescens was more sensitive to CuNPs as compared to Gram positive B. subtilis mainly due to the differences in their cell wall structure and composition. CuNPs with smaller hydrodynamic size (11.34 nm) were highly toxic as revealed by MIC, MBC tests, cytoplasmic leakage and ROS assays, which may be due to the higher active surface area of CuNPs and greater membrane penetration. Leakage of cytoplasmic components and generation of extra‐cellular oxidative stress by reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes cell death. The present study realizes in gauging the negative impact of inadvertent release of nanoparticles in the environment, however, in situ experiments to know its overall impact on soil health and soil microflora can help in finding solution to combat ecotoxicity of nanoparticles.     

Broad‐spectrum inhibitory effect of green synthesised silver nanoparticles from Withania somnifera (L.) on microbial growth,biofilm and respiration: a putative mechanistic approach

Multi‐drug resistance in pathogenic bacteria has created immense clinical problem globally. To address these, there is need to develop new therapeutic strategies to combat bacterial infections. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) might prove to be next generation nano‐antibiotics. However, improved efficacy and broad‐spectrum activity is still needed to be evaluated and understood. The authors have synthesised AgNPs from Withania somnifera (WS) by green process and characterised. The effect of WS‐AgNPs on growth kinetics, biofilm inhibition as well as eradication of preformed biofilms on both gram‐positive and gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria was evaluated. The authors have demonstrated the inhibitory effect on bacterial respiration and disruption of membrane permeability and integrity. It was found that WS‐AgNPs inhibited growth of pathogenic bacteria even at 16 µg/ml. At sub‐minimum inhibitory concentration concentration, there was approximately 50% inhibition in biofilm formation which was further validated by light and electron microscopy. WS‐AgNPs also eradicated the performed biofilms by varying levels at elevated concentration. The bacterial respiration was also significantly inhibited. Interaction of WS‐AgNPs with test pathogen caused the disruption of cell membrane leading to leakage of cellular content. The production of intracellular reactive oxygen species reveals that WS‐AgNPs exerted oxidative stress inside bacterial cell causing microbial growth inhibition and disrupting cellular functions.Inspec keywords: silver, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, antibacterial activity, biomedical materials, cellular biophysics, microorganisms, biomembranes, electron microscopy, oxidation, biochemistry, permeabilityOther keywords: broad‐spectrum inhibitory effect, green synthesised silver nanoparticles, Withania somnifera (L.), microbial growth, putative mechanistic approach, multidrug resistance, therapeutic strategies, bacterial infections, next generation nanoantibiotics, broad‐spectrum activity, WS‐AgNPs, growth kinetics, biofilm inhibition, gram‐positive pathogenic bacteria, gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria, bacterial respiration, membrane permeability, membrane integrity, subminimum inhibitory concentration concentration, biofilm formation, light pathogenic bacteria, electron microscopy, cell membrane, cellular content leakage, intracellular reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress, microbial growth inhibition, Ag     

Sustained delivery of olanzapine from sunflower oil‐based polyol‐urethane nanoparticles synthesised through a cyclic carbonate ring‐opening reaction

The forefront horizon of biomedical investigations in recent decades is parcelling‐up and delivery of drugs to achieve controlled/targeted release. In this regard, developing green‐based delivery systems for a spatiotemporal controlling therapeutic agent have drawn a lot of attention. A facile route based on cyclic carbonate ring‐opening reaction has been utilised to synthesise a bio‐based polyol‐containing urethane bond [polyol‐urethane (POU)] as a nanoparticulate drug delivery system of olanzapine in order to enhance its bioavailability. After characterisation, the nanoparticles were also estimated for in vitro release, toxicity, and pharmacokinetic studies. As olanzapine has shown poor bioavailability and permeability in the brain, the sustained release of olanzapine from the designed carriers could enhance pharmacokinetic effectiveness. POU in the aqueous solution formed micelles with a hydrophobic core and embedded olanzapine under the influence of its hydrophobic nature. Drug release from the nanoparticles (90 ± 0.43 nm in diameter) indicated a specific pattern with initial burst release, and then a sustained release behaviour (82 ± 3% after 168 h), by the Higuchi‐based release mechanism. Pharmacokinetics assessments of POU‐olanzapine nanoparticles were carried in male Wistar rats through intravenous administration. The obtained results paved a way to introduce the POU as an efficient platform to enhance the bioavailability of olanzapine in therapeutic methods.Inspec keywords: hydrophobicity, nanomedicine, nanofabrication, nanoparticles, drug delivery systems, biomedical materials, polymers, brainOther keywords: cyclic carbonate ring‐opening reaction, nanoparticulate drug delivery system, bioavailability, drug release, initial burst release, Higuchi‐based release mechanism, POU‐olanzapine nanoparticles, sunflower oil‐based polyol‐urethane nanoparticles, forefront horizon, biomedical investigations, green‐based delivery systems, spatiotemporal controlling therapeutic agent, bio‐based polyol‐containing urethane bond, polyol‐urethane, toxicity, pharmacokinetic studies, olanzapine, aqueous solution, micelles, hydrophobic core, Pharmacokinetics, male Wistar rats, brain     

Layer-by-layer deposition of green synthesised silver nanoparticles on polyester air filters and its antimicrobial activity

Silver nanoparticles stabilised with anionic polymeric polyelectrolytes were successfully synthesised by high-energy UV reduction. Three types of polyelectrolytes were used including poly(methacrylic acid) (PMA), poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and poly(4-styrenesulphonic acid-co-maleic acid) (CoPSS). The formation of the prepared solutions exhibited surface plasmon resonance at the wavelength of 475, 730 and 408 nm by using PMA, PAA and CoPSS as the stabilising agents. UV–visible spectrophotometer, transmission electron microscope (TEM) and zeta potential analyser were employed to characterise the formation of the prepared solutions. The silver nanoparticles stabilised with anionic polyelectrolytes were immobilised on polyester air filters using a layer-by-layer technique. This is the sequential dipping of polyester air filters in a dilute solution of cationic poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) and anionic polymeric polyelectrolytes capped silver. The surface topography of the polyester air filters were measured by field emission scanning electron microscope. Results showed that silver nanoparticles had the highest surface coverage on the polyester air filters probably because it is a good bonding candidate and insures strong film growth. The multilayers polyester air filters coated silver nanoparticles were tested against the gram positive pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. The deposition of silver nanoparticles onto the polyester air filters resulted in 92.18%, 84.32% and 71.19% of bacteria removal using PMA, PAA and CoPSS as the stabilising agent.     

Nutratherapeutics approach against cancer: tomato‐mediated synthesised gold nanoparticles

In this study, an eco‐friendly biosynthesis of stable gold nanoparticles (T‐GNPs) was carried out using different concentrations of tomato juice (nutraceuticals) as a reducing agent and tetrachloroauric acid as a metal precursor to explore their potential application in cancer therapeutics. The synthesis of T‐GNPs was monitored by UV‐visible absorption spectroscopy, which unveiled their formation by exhibiting the typical surface plasmon absorption maxima at 522 nm. The size of T‐GNPs was found to be 10.86 ± 0.6 nm. T‐GNPs were characterised by dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. T‐GNPs were further investigated for their anti‐cancer activity against human lung carcinoma cell line (A ₅₄₉) and human cervical cancer cell line wherein the IC₅₀ values were found to be 0.286 and 0.200 mM, respectively. T‐GNPs inhibited the growth of cancer cells by generating ROS and inducing apoptosis. T‐GNPs were found highly effective by virtue of their size, metallic property and capping molecules. Thus, this study opens up the prospects of using nutraceutical (tomato juice) as nutratherapeutic agent (T‐GNPs) against critical diseases like lung cancer and cervical cancer.Inspec keywords: gold, nanoparticles, particle size, cancer, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, electrokinetic effects, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, cellular biophysics, spectrochemical analysis, nanomedicine, nanofabricationOther keywords: tomato‐mediated synthesised gold nanoparticles, tomato juice, reducing agent, tetrachloroauric acid, cancer therapeutics, UV‐visible absorption spectroscopy, surface plasmon absorption, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, human lung carcinoma cell line, anticancer activity, human cervical cancer cell line, nutratherapeutic agent, lung cancer, Au     

Antibacterial and dye degradation potential of zero‐valent silver nanoparticles synthesised using the leaf extract of Spondias dulcis

The present study reports a simple and low cost synthesis of zero‐valent silver nanoparticles (ZVSNPs) from silver nitrate using the leaf extract of Spondias dulcis. The ZVSNPs showed a unique peak at 420 nm in UV–vis spectrum. The SEM image portrayed cuboidal shaped particles. The EDX spectrum designated the elemental silver peak at 3 keV. In XRD, a sharp peak at 32.47° denoted the existence of (1 0 1) lattice plane and the average crystallite size was calculated as 48.61 nm. The lattice parameter was determined as 0.39 nm. The FTIR spectra of the leaf extract and ZVSNPs showed shifts in the specific functional group bands which ascertained the involvement of phytoconstituents in the formation and capping of nanoparticles. The average hydrodynamic size was measured as 59.66 nm by DLS method. A low PDI, 0.187 witnessed the monodispersity. A negative zeta potential value of −15.7 mV indicated the negative surface charges of the nanoparticles. The bactericidal action of ZVSNPs was demonstrated against two pathogens S.typhimurium and E.coli during which a dosage dependent zone of inhibition results was observed. Additionally, the catalytic potential of ZVSNPs was examined for the degradation of methylene blue dye in which an accelerated degradation of the dye was observed.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, crystallites, electrokinetic effects, scanning electron microscopy, nanoparticles, particle size, ultraviolet spectra, X‐ray chemical analysis, microorganisms, light scattering, nanofabrication, materials preparation, X‐ray diffraction, visible spectra, silver, dyes, Fourier transform infrared spectraOther keywords: wavelength 420.0 nm, Ag, voltage ‐15.7 mV, size 59.66 nm, size 0.39 nm, size 48.61 nm, electron volt energy 3.0 keV, Fourier transform infrared spectra, methylene blue dye, bactericidal action, dynamic light scattering, lattice parameter, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Spondias dulcis, negative zeta potential, polydispersity index, crystallite size, leaf extract, X‐ray diffraction, energy dispersive X‐ray spectrum, cuboidal‐shaped particles, scanning electron microscopy image, ultraviolet–visible spectrum, silver nitrate, zero‐valent silver nanoparticles     

Cytotoxicity of biologically synthesised bismuth nanoparticles against HT‐29 cell line

This study was purposed to examine the cytotoxicity and functions of biologically synthesised bismuth nanoparticles (Bi NPs) produced by Delftia sp. SFG on human colon adenocarcinoma cell line of HT‐29. The structural properties of Bi NPs were investigated using transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. The cytotoxic effects of Bi NPs were analysed using flow cytometry cell apoptosis while western blot analyses were applied to analyse the cleaved caspase‐3 expression. Oxidative stress (OS) damage was determined using the measurement of the glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) value of Bi NPs was measured to be 28.7 ± 1.4 µg/ml on HT‐29 cell line. The viability of HT‐29 represented a concentration‐dependent pattern (5–80 µg/ml). The mode of Bi NPs induced apoptosis was found to be mainly related to late apoptosis or necrosis at IC₅₀ concentration, without the effect on caspase‐3 activities. Furthermore, Bi NPs reduced the GSH and increased the MDA levels and decreased the SOD and CAT activities. Taken together, biogenic Bi NPs induced cytotoxicity on HT‐29 cell line through the activation of late apoptosis independent of caspase pathway and may enhance the OS biomarkers.Inspec keywords: bismuth, nanoparticles, cellular biophysics, toxicology, nanomedicine, cancer, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, X‐ray diffraction, enzymes, biochemistryOther keywords: cytotoxicity, biologically synthesised bismuth nanoparticles, HT‐29 cell line, Delftia sp. SFG, human colon adenocarcinoma cell line, structural properties, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray techniques, X‐ray diffraction, cytotoxic effects, flow cytometry cell apoptosis, western blot analyses, cleaved caspase‐3 expression, oxidative stress damage, glutathione, malondialdehyde, antioxidant activity, superoxide dismutase, catalase level, half maximal inhibitory concentration, cell viability, concentration‐dependent pattern, apoptosis, MDA levels, caspase pathway, Bi     

Starch‐capped sulphur nanoparticles synthesised from bulk powder sulphur and their anti‐phytopathogenic activity against Clavibacter sepedonicus

Water‐soluble, stable nanoparticles of elemental sulphur with a size of 9‐52 nm have been synthesised using the stabilising potential of starch. Sulphide anions were used as sulphur precursors that were generated earlier from the bulk powder sulphur in the base‐reduction system NaOH‐N₂H₄·H₂O followed by their oxidation with molecular oxygen to element sulphur atoms. Using a set of modern spectral and microscopic methods (XRD, optical spectroscopy, DLS, TEM), the phase state, elemental composition of the nanocomposites and their nanomorphological characteristics have been investigated. It was found that nanocomposites are formed as sulphur particles with the shape which is nearly spherical dispersed in the polysaccharide starch matrix with a pronounced tendency to cluster into ring formations. Water solubility and stability of the obtained nanoparticles is ensured by sorption of starch macromolecules on the surface of sulphur nanoparticles, with the thickness of the stabilising shell in a range of 10‐171 nm. In vitro experiments were carried out to study the anti‐microbial activity of the obtained sulphur nanocomposite (1.6% S) using the propidium iodide fluorescent dye staining method and the diffusion method. It showed that the water solution of the starch‐capped sulphur nanoparticles at the concentration of 6.25 µg/ml had a pronounced anti‐phytopathogenic activity against the potato ring rot pathogen Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus.     

A facile and green route to silver nanoparticles in water

Stable water-dispersible silver nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution are obtained by light-assisted spontaneous reduction of silver nitrate with gelatin, which acts as both the reducing and the stabilizing agents, in water. The formation mechanism of the silver nanoparticles involves an in-situ conversion of Ag(+)-gelatin aggregates to gelatin-stabilized silver nanoparticles via a Ag(+)-mediated oxidation of primary amine groups of the gelatin to carboxylic acid groups. The resultant silver nanoparticles are well within the quantum size domain (10 nm). In addition, the nanoparticles are stable in aqueous solutions and can be separated easily by simple pH adjustment.     

Seed germination and biochemical profile of Citrus reticulata (Kinnow) exposed to green synthesised silver nanoparticles

The biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is substantial for its applications in different fields. The Moringa oleifera leaves were used as reducing and stabilising agent for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The synthesised AgNPs were characterised through UV–visible spectroscopy, zeta analyser, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive Xray (EDX). In this study, effects of the synthesised AgNPs were also evaluated on nucellus tissues germination frequency and biochemical parameters of plant tissues. Nucellus tissues of Citrus reticulata were inoculated on MS medium supplemented with 10, 20, 30 and 40 µg/ml suspension of the synthesised AgNPs. Green synthesised AgNPs enhanced the in vitro germination because of low toxicity and nonfriendly issues. Significant results were obtained for germination parameters i.e. root and shoot length and seedling vigour index in response to 30 µg/ml suspension of green synthesised AgNPs. The 30 µ/ml suspension of AgNPs also enhanced antioxidant activity (41%) and SOD activity (0.36 nM/min/mg FW) while total phenolic content (4.7 µg/mg FW) and total flavonoid content (1.1 µg/mg FW) was significantly high when MS medium was fortified with 40 µg/ml suspension of the synthesised AgNPs. The content of total protein was significant (558 µg/BSA Eq/mg FW) in control plantlets as compared to the other treatments.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, ultraviolet spectra, X‐ray chemical analysis, proteins, microorganisms, biochemistry, nanofabrication, silver, nanotechnology, visible spectra, surface plasmon resonance, nanoparticles, suspensions, nanomedicine, scanning electron microscopy, electrokinetic effectsOther keywords: green synthesised silver nanoparticles, superoxide dismutase activity, biochemical profile, UV–visible spectroscopy, Citrus reticulata, green synthesised suspension, EDX detector, zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy, SEM, energy dispersive X‐ray, EDX, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, size 423.0 nm to 425.0 nm, size 8.0 nm to 28.0 nm     

Evaluation of the toxicities of silver and silver sulfide nanoparticles against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria

In this study, the endogenous lipid signalling molecules, N ‐myristoylethanolamine, were explored as a capping agent to synthesise stable silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Ag sulphide NPs (Ag₂ S NPs). Sulphidation of the AgNPs abolishes the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) maximum of AgNPs at 415 nm with concomitant changes in the SPR, indicating the formation of Ag₂ S NPs. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the AgNPs and Ag₂ S NPs are spherical in shape with a size of 5–30 and 8–30 nm, respectively. AgNPs and Ag₂ S NPs exhibit antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 25 and 50 μM for AgNPs and Ag₂ S NPs, respectively, were determined from resazurin microtitre plate assay. At or above MIC, both AgNPs and Ag₂ S NPs decrease the cell viability through the mechanism of membrane damage and generation of excess reactive oxygen species.Inspec keywords: cellular biophysics, biomembranes, transmission electron microscopy, nanomedicine, microorganisms, molecular biophysics, antibacterial activity, nanofabrication, silver, biomedical materials, surface plasmon resonance, nanoparticles, materials preparation, silver compounds, lipid bilayersOther keywords: Gram‐negative bacteria, Gram‐positive bacteria, endogenous lipid signalling molecules, N‐myristoylethanolamine, capping agent, silver nanoparticles, Ag sulphide NPs, sulphidation, surface plasmon resonance, concomitant changes, transmission electron microscopy, minimum inhibitory concentrations, resazurin microtitre plate assay, cell viability, membrane damage, reactive oxygen species, Ag toxicities, Ag, Ag₂ S     

Sustainable green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by using Rangoon creeper leaves extract and their spectral analysis and anti‐bacterial studies

The plant‐based biological molecules possess exceptionally controlled assembling properties to make them suitable in the synthesis of metal nanoparticles. In the present study, an efficient simple one‐pot method was employed for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) from the Rangoon creeper (RC) aqueous leaf extract. Biomolecules present in the leaf extract play a significant role as reducing agent as well as capping agent in the formation of RC‐SNPs. The formation of RC‐SNPs was confirmed by using several analytical techniques such as Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer studies. The presence of a sharp surface plasmon resonance peak at 449 nm showed the formation of RC‐SNPs. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed the crystalline nature of the RC‐SNPs with a face‐centred cubic structure. Elemental analysis of RC‐SNPs was done by using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The morphology of RC‐SNPs was examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in the nano range 12 nm, and thermogravimetric‐differential thermal analysis demonstrated the mechanical strength of RC‐SNPs at various temperatures. The authors’ newly synthesised RC‐SNPs exhibited significant anti‐bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Inspec keywords: silver, nanoparticles, X‐ray photoelectron spectra, antibacterial activity, ultraviolet spectra, microorganisms, X‐ray chemical analysis, differential thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, visible spectra, nanofabrication, surface plasmon resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectra, mechanical strengthOther keywords: silver nanoparticles, ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry, antibacterial activity, sustainable green synthesis, plant‐based biological molecules, assembling properties, reducing agent, capping agent, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, surface plasmon resonance, Rangoon creeper aqueous leaf extract, X‐ray diffraction, face‐centred cubic structure, elemental analysis, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, TEM, thermogravimetric‐differential thermal analysis, mechanical strength, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Ag     

Analytical study of biosynthesised silver nanoparticles against multi‐drug resistant biofilm‐forming pathogens

The emergence of the huge number of multi‐drug resistant (MDR) bacteria requires an alternative to the drugs. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are a strong candidate for this due to their bactericidal properties, which can be better concluded by understanding their morphology and chemistry. The study hypothesised that AgNPs synthesised using leaves of Syzygium cumini can be used to treat locally emerging MDRs forming biofilms on indwelling medical devices. Synthesised particles were characterised by methods like UV–visible spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Zetasizer. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and high‐performance liquid chromatography were used to predict phytochemicals present in the leaves. The shape of particles is revealed to be relatively spherical, with average size to be around 10–100 nm. Phenolic compounds are attributed to the formation of nanoparticles, stability analysis shows particles to be stable, and zeta potential determined the surface charge to be −20.1 mV. Biosynthesised particles are found to possess efficient antibacterial activity MDR bacteria developing biofilms in medical devices; hence, it is concluded that S. cumini based NPs can be used to develop a layer on implant‐related medical devices. Toxicity evaluation against A594 cancer cells portrays AgNPs to be potential tumour reduction agents in a concentration‐dependent manner.Inspec keywords: silver, visible spectra, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, chromatography, electrokinetic effects, cancer, biomedical materials, reduction (chemical), cellular biophysics, nanofabrication, nanoparticles, antibacterial activity, particle size, drugs, toxicology, nanomedicine, ultraviolet spectra, microorganisms, tumours, Fourier transform infrared spectraOther keywords: Syzygium cumini, biofilms, indwelling medical devices, UV‐visible spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high‐performance liquid chromatography, biosynthesised particles, implant‐related medical devices, biosynthesised silver nanoparticles, multidrug resistant biofilm‐forming pathogens, multidrug resistant bacteria, MDR, bactericidal properties, morphology, scanning electron microscopy, s. cumini based NP, A594 cancer cells, tumour reduction, Ag