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     

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     

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     

Phyto‐assisted synthesis of bio‐functionalised silver nanoparticles and their potential anti‐oxidant,anti‐microbial and wound healing activities

Bio‐ synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was made by using the aqueous leaf extract of Ardisia solanacea. Rapid formation of AgNPs was observed from silver nitrate upon treatment with the aqueous extract of A. solanacea leaf. The formation and stability of the AgNPs in the colloidal solution were monitored by UV–visible spectrophotometer. The mean particle diameter of AgNPs was calculated from the DLS with an average size ∼4 nm and ∼65 nm. ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of alcohols, aldehydes, flavonoids, phenols and nitro compounds in the leaf which act as the stabilizing agent. Antimicrobial activity of the synthesized AgNPs was performed using agar well diffusion and broth dilution method against the Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. Further, robust anti‐oxidative potential was evaluated by DPPH assay. The highest antimicrobial activity of synthesized AgNPs was found against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (28.2 ± 0.52 mm) whereas moderate activity was found against Bacillus subtilis (16.1 ± 0.76), Candida kruseii (13.0 ± 1.0), and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (12.6 ± 1.52). Moreover, the potential wound healing activity was observed against the BJ‐5Ta normal fibroblast cell line. Current research revealed that A. solanacea was found to be a suitable source for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, nanoparticles, silver, nanomedicine, wounds, microorganisms, X‐ray diffraction, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectra, transmission electron microscopyOther keywords: phyto‐assisted synthesis, biofunctionalised silver nanoparticles, antioxidant antimicrobial wound healing activities, silver nanoparticle biosynthesis, aqueous leaf extract, Ardisia solanacea, silver nitrate, UV–visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy, dilution method, Gram‐positive bacteria, Gram‐negative bacteria, radical scavenging method, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Bacillus subtilis, Candida kruseii, BJ‐5Ta normal fibroblast cell line, SEM, alcohols, aldehydes, flavonoids, phenols, nitro compounds, Ag     

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     

Bacteriocin‐capped silver nanoparticles for enhanced antimicrobial efficacy against food pathogens

Bacteriocins produced by lactic acid bacteria are safer alternatives to the more popularly used chemical preservatives which exhibit several adverse effects. The bacteriocins have an advantage of being efficient in controlling food pathogens without possessing any side‐effects. However, the bacteriocins have a limitation of exhibiting a narrow antimicrobial spectrum and having a high‐dosage requirement. With an aim to combat these limitations, the present study involved the biosynthesis of bacteriocin‐capped nanoparticles, using two bacteriocins (Bac4463 and Bac22) extracted and purified from Lactobacillus strains. Nanoconjugates synthesised at optimum conditions were characterized using various physico‐chemical techniques. The interaction of bacteriocin‐capped silver nanoparticles with the pathogenic bacteria was observed using scanning electron microscopy, wherein the deformed and elongated cells were clearly visible. In vitro antimicrobial efficacy of both Bac4463‐capped silver nanoparticles and Bac22‐capped silver nanoparticles against different food pathogens was observed to be enhanced in comparison to the antimicrobial activity of bacteriocins alone. Minimum inhibitory concentration was observed to be as low as 8 μg/ml for Bac4463‐capped silver nanoparticles against Staphylococcus aureus, and 2 μg/ml for Bac22‐capped silver nanoparticles against Shigella flexneri. This study, therefore, recommends the use of bacteriocin‐capped nanoparticles as food preservatives to control the growth of food spoiling bacteria.Inspec keywords: preservatives, elongation, food safety, silver, biotechnology, antibacterial activity, food preservation, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, food products, scanning electron microscopy, microorganismsOther keywords: bacteriocins, chemical preservatives, food pathogens, bacteriocin‐capped nanoparticles, bacteriocin‐capped silver nanoparticles, Bac4463‐capped silver nanoparticles, Bac22‐capped silver nanoparticles, enhanced antimicrobial efficacy     

Actinobacterial‐mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their activity against pathogenic bacteria

In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesised by using acidophilic actinobacterial SH11 strain isolated from pine forest soil. Isolate SH11 was identified based on 16S rRNA gene sequence to Streptomyces kasugaensis M338‐M1^T and S. celluloflavus NRRL B‐2493^T (99.8% similarity, both). Biosynthesised AgNPs were analysed by UV–visible spectroscopy, which revealed specific peak at λ  = 420 nm. Transmission electron microscopy analyses showed polydispersed, spherical nanoparticles with a mean size of 13.2 nm, while Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the presence of proteins as the capping agents over the surface of AgNPs. The zeta potential was found to be −16.6 mV, which indicated stability of AgNPs. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs from SH11 strain against gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria was estimated using disc diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration and live/dead analyses. The AgNPs showed the maximum antimicrobial activity against E. coli, followed by B. subtilis and S. aureus. Further, the synergistic effect of AgNPs in combination with commercial antibiotics (kanamycin, ampicillin, tetracycline) was also evaluated against bacterial isolates. The antimicrobial efficacy of antibiotics was found to be enhanced in the presence of AgNPs.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, silver, nanoparticles, electrokinetic effects, Fourier transform infrared spectra, microorganisms, nanofabricationOther keywords: actinobacterial mediated synthesis, silver nanoparticles, pathogenic bacteria, biosynthesis, acidophilic actinobacterial SH11 strain, pine forest soil, 16S rRNA gene sequence, Streptomyces kasugaensis M338‐M1T, S. celluloflavus NRRL B‐2493T, UV–visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential, gram positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, gram negative bacteria, Escherichia coli, disc diffusion, wavelength 420 nm, 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     

ZnO nanoparticles and their acarbose‐capped nanohybrids as inhibitors for human salivary amylase

The authors report a controlled synthesis of biocompatible ZnO and acarbose‐capped nanohybrids, and examined the inhibition activities of these nanosystems with human salivary α ‐amylase (HSA) activity. XRD measurements reveal ZnO present in wurtzite phase with hexagonal structure. The average size of ZnO particles for the two studied nanosystems was estimated to lie between 10 to 12 nm using Scherrer equation. These particles depict the onset of absorption at about 320 nm and the band‐gap emission at about 370 nm, which are fairly blue shifted as compared with the bulk ZnO and have been understood due to the size quantisation effect. The inhibitory action of thioglycerol capped ZnO nanoparticles (SP1) and acarbose drug (used for diabetes type II) capped ZnO (SP2) for HSA was observed to 61 and72%, respectively. The inhibition activity of the SP1 alone was found to be very similar to that of acarbose and the coating of these particles with drug (SP2) demonstrated an enhancement in inhibition activity of the enzyme by about 30%. From the inhibition studies, it is confirmed that these nanosystems showed better inhibition activity at physiological temperature and pH. These nanosystems are projected to have potential applications in diabetes type II control.Inspec keywords: zinc compounds, II‐VI semiconductors, wide band gap semiconductors, nanoparticles, drugs, enzymes, molecular biophysics, nanomedicine, ultraviolet spectra, nanocomposites, nanofabrication, fluorescence, visible spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectra, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, absorption coefficients, diseases, coatings, field emission electron microscopyOther keywords: acarbose‐capped nanohybrids, inhibitors, biocompatible zinc oxide nanoparticles, inhibition activity, human salivary α‐amylase activity, HSA activity, advanced analytical tools, ultraviolet‐visible spectra, fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer, atomic force microscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, wurtzite phase, hexagonal structure, average size, Scherer equation, onset absorption, band‐gap emissions, size quantisation effect, thioglycerol capped nanoparticles, acarbose drug, enzyme, diabetes type II control, size 10 nm to 12 nm, ZnO     

Synthesis,characterisation and anti‐tumour activity of biopolymer based platinum nanoparticles and 5‐fluorouracil loaded platinum nanoparticles

A facile and green synthesis of platinum nanoparticles [gum kondagogu platinum nanoparticles (GKPtNP)] using biopolymer‐ gum kondagogu was developed. The formation of GKPtNP was confirmed by ultraviolet (UV)–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared, inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. The formed GKPtNP are well dispersed, homogeneous with a size of 2–4 ± 0.50 nm, having a negative zeta potential (−46.1 mV) indicating good stability. 5‐Fluorouracil (5FU) was loaded onto the synthesised GKPtNP, which leads to the development of a new combination of nanomedicine (5FU–GKPtNP). The in vitro drug release studies of 5FU–GKPtNP in pH 7.4 showed a sustained release profile over a period of 120 min. Agrobacterium tumefaciens induced in vitro potato tumour bioassay was employed for screening the anti‐tumour potentials of GKPtNP, 5FU, and 5FU–GKPtNP. The experimental results suggested a complete tumour inhibition by 5FU–GKPtNP at a lower concentration than the GKPtNP and 5FU. Furthermore, the mechanism of anti‐tumour activity was assessed by their interactions with DNA using agarose gel electrophoresis and UV‐spectroscopic analysis. The electrophoresis results revealed that the 5FU–GKPtNP totally diminishes DNA and the UV‐spectroscopic analysis showed a hyperchromic effect with red shift indicating intercalation type of binding with DNA. Over all, the present study revealed that the combined exposure of the nanoformulation resulted in the enhanced anti‐tumour effect. Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, transmission electron microscopy, biomedical materials, tumours, ultraviolet spectra, DNA, drugs, electrophoresis, polymers, platinum, pH, drug delivery systems, biochemistry, X‐ray chemical analysis, microorganisms, molecular biophysics, electrokinetic effects, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, cancer, nanofabrication, visible spectra, nanomedicine, Fourier transform infrared spectra, materials preparationOther keywords: 5FU–GKPtNP, 5‐fluorouracil loaded platinum nanoparticles, gum kondagogu platinum nanoparticles, antitumour activity, scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, biopolymer‐based platinum nanoparticles, biopolymer‐based platinum nanoparticles, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, UV‐visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy, nanomedicine, in vitro drug release studies, sustained release profile, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, in vitro potato tumour bioassay, tumour inhibition, tumour activity, agarose gel electrophoresis, UV‐spectroscopic analysis, DNA, time 120.0 min, Pt     

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.     

Antibacterial and catalytic activity of biogenic gold nanoparticles synthesised by Trichoderma harzianum

This study reveals the antibacterial and catalytic activity of biogenic gold nanoparicles (AuNPs) synthesised by biomass of Trichoderma harzianum. The antibacterial activity of AuNPs was analysed by the means of growth curve, well diffusion and colony forming unit (CFU) count methods. The minimum inhibitory concentration of AuNPs was 20 µg/ml. AuNPs at 60 µg/ml show effective antibacterial activity as optical absorption was insignificant. The well diffusion and CFU methods were also applied to analyse the effect of various concentration of AuNPs. Further, the catalytic activity of AuNPs was analysed against methylene blue (MB) as a model pollutant in water. MB was degraded 39% in 30 min in the presence of AuNPs and sodium borohydrate and the rate constant (k) was found to be 0.2 × 10⁻³ s⁻¹. This shows that the biogenic AuNP is an effective candidate for antibacterial and catalytic degradation of toxic pollutants.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, catalysis, nanoparticles, gold, nanofabrication, biomedical materials, nanomedicine, renewable materials, surface diffusion, dyes, water pollution, reaction rate constants, toxicologyOther keywords: antibacterial activity, catalytic activity, biogenic gold nanoparticles, Trichoderma harzianum, biomass, growth curve, diffusion, colony forming unit count methods, minimum inhibitory concentration, optical absorption, CFU methods, methylene blue, water pollutant, catalytic degradation, toxic pollutants, sodium borohydrate, rate constant, Au     

Evaluation of betamethasone sodium phosphate loaded chitosan nanoparticles for anti‐rheumatoid activity

Nanocarriers, in various forms, have the possibility of providing endless opportunities in the area of drug delivery. The purpose of this study was formulation and evaluation of betamethasone sodium phosphate (BSP) loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) using cross‐linked chitosan malic acid derivative for better therapeutic effect. The prepared BSP loaded CNPs formulations were characterised for photon correlation spectroscopy, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, in‐vitro release kinetics and in‐vivo toxicity studies. Mean particle diameter of BSP loaded CNPs was about 130 nm with spherical morphology. The in‐vitro drug release study of BSP loaded CNPs showed sustained drug release for 48 h and drug release was found to follow zero order. The biochemical, haematology and histopathology reports of in‐vivo toxicity studies revealed that BSP loaded CNPs do not exhibit any toxic effect on vital organs and could be safe. The developed BSP loaded CNPs are found to be safer, and used for the treatments of highly prevalent and chronic disease like rheumatoid arthritis.Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, drug delivery systems, electrokinetic effects, toxicology, photon correlation spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, diseases, organic compounds, nanomedicineOther keywords: betamethasone sodium phosphate, chitosan nanoparticles, antirheumatoid activity, nanocarriers, drug delivery, cross‐linked chitosan malic acid derivative, photon correlation spectroscopy, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, in‐vitro release kinetics, in‐vivo toxicity, spherical morphology, rheumatoid arthritis     

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     

Removal of toxic contaminants from water by sustainable green synthesised non‐toxic silver nanoparticles

The study describes the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using 21 different plant extracts having medicinal properties. Molecular ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy shows that the λ _max of nanoparticles synthesised by different plant extracts varied and ranged between 400 and 468 nm. The ultraviolet results revealed that although synthesis of nanoparticles occurred by all plant extracts successfully, their size varies, this was further confirmed by differential light scattering. The synthesised nanoparticles were investigated for their antimicrobial properties. The most promising silver nanoparticles Ocimum sanctum and Artemisia annua assisted were further characterised using transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). EDX data confirms that synthesised nanoparticles are highly pure. Further these two plant assisted nanoparticles were studied for chemocatalytic and adsorptive properties. The silver nanoparticles from Ocimum sanctum can catalyse the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (63%) within 20 min in the presence of NaBH₄, whereas Artemisia annua assisted silver nanoparticles did not show significant chemocatalytic activity. Both the promising nanoparticles can efficiently adsorb textile dyes from aqueous solutions. These synthesised nanoparticles were also exploited to remove microbial and other contaminants from Yamuna River water. The nanoparticles show excellent antimicrobial properties and can be reused repeatedly.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, nanofabrication, silver, dyes, light scattering, visible spectra, microorganisms, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, catalysis, nanoparticles, ultraviolet spectra, adsorption, reduction (chemical)Other keywords: sustainable green synthesised nontoxic silver nanoparticles, silver nitrate, molecular ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, plant assisted nanoparticles, plant extracts, Ocimum sanctum, Artemisia annua, E. coli, C. albicans, plasmon absorbance, differential light scattering, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, 4‐nitrophenol, chemocatalytic activity, Yamuna River water, antimicrobial properties, time 20.0 min, time 5.0 min to 240.0 hour, size 1.0 nm to 5.0 nm, size 5.0 nm to 20.0 nm, wavelength 400.0 nm to 468.0 nm, NaBH₄ , Ag     

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     

Biosynthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles using yeast Nematospora coryli and examination of their anti‐candida and anti‐oxidant activities

Selenium (Se) is a rare and essential element for the human body and other living organisms because of its role in the structure of several proteins and having anti‐oxidant properties to reduce oxidative stress at cells. Some microorganisms can absorb Se oxyanions and convert them into zero‐valent Se (Se0) in the nanoscale dimensions, which can be used for producing Se nanoparticles (SeNPs). In the present study, SeNPs were intracellularly biosynthesised by yeast Nematospora coryli, which is an inexpensive method and does not involve using materials hazardous for human and environment. The produced NPs were refined by a two‐phase system and then characterised and identified by ultraviolet–visible, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence, transmission electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. The structural analysis of biosynthesised SeNPs showed spherical‐shaped NPs with size ranging from 50 to 250 nm. Also, extracted NPs were applied to explore their anti‐candida and anti‐oxidant activities. The results of this investigation confirm the biological properties of Se.Inspec keywords: X‐ray diffraction, microorganisms, oxidation, transmission electron microscopy, reduction (chemical), nanomedicine, biomedical materials, visible spectra, nanoparticles, proteins, nanofabrication, selenium, ultraviolet spectra, particle size, Fourier transform infrared spectra, antibacterial activityOther keywords: proteins, oxidative stress, Se oxyanions, yeast, biosynthesised SeNPs, anti‐oxidant activities, human body, living organisms, Se nanoparticles, Nematospora coryli, anti‐candida activities, biosynthesis, ultraviolet–visible analysis, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence, transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, structural analysis, size 50.0 nm to 250.0 nm, Se     

Bio‐inspired synthesis of sulphur nanoparticles using leaf extract of four medicinal plants with special reference to their antibacterial activity

We report new, eco‐friendly and green method for the synthesis of sulphur nanoparticles using sodium polysulphide in the presence of leaf extracts of four different medicinal plants, which can be used for treatment of bacterial infections. Sodium polysulphide and acidic solution (H₂ SO₄) in the presence of plant leaf extract developed the yellowish precipitate in solution, which indicated the formation of sulphur nanoparticles. UV–Vis spectrophotometer analysis of reaction mixture showed absorbance spectra in the range of 292–296 nm, which is supposed to be specific for sulphur nanoparticles. Zeta potential study of sulphur nanoparticles synthesized from Catharanthus roseus showed more stability when compared with other medicinal plants. Sulphur nanoparticles synthesized from C. roseus were further characterized by XRD analysis, FTIR analysis, and TEM analysis. The biogenic sulphur nanoparticles were spherical, polydispersed with particle size of 70–80 nm. Evaluation of antibacterial study revealed that synthesized sulphur nanoparticles exhibited better bactericidal efficacy against common pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with minimum inhibitory concentration of 200 μg/ml with significant activity used in combination with antibiotic. It can be concluded that the synthesized sulphur nanoparticles can be used as antibacterial agents after thorough experimental trials in animals.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, biomedical materials, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, sodium compounds, sulphur, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectra, electrokinetic effects, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, microorganismsOther keywords: bio‐inspired synthesis, sulphur nanoparticles, leaf extract, medicinal plants, antibacterial activity, eco‐friendly, green synthesis, sodium polysulphide, bacterial infections, biological synthesis, UV–visible analysis, nanoparticle tracking analysis, zeta potential analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy analysis, acidic solution, UV–Vis spectrophotometer analysis, pathogenic bacteria, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, size 70 nm to 80 nm, wavelength 292 nm to 296 nm, S     

In vitro biological evaluation of anti‐diabetic activity of organic–inorganic hybrid gold nanoparticles

Diabetes mellitus has been considered as a heterogeneous metabolic disorder characterised by complete or relative impairment in the production of insulin by pancreatic β‐cells or insulin resistance. In the present study, propanoic acid, an active biocomponent isolated from Cassia auriculata is employed for the synthesis of propanoic acid functionalised gold nanoparticles (Pa@AuNPs) and its anti‐diabetic activity has been demonstrated in vitro. In vitro cytotoxicity of synthesised Pa@AuNPs was performed in L6 myotubes. The mode of action of Pa@AuNPs exhibiting anti‐diabetic potential was validated by glucose uptake assay in the presence of Genistein (insulin receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor) and Wortmannin (Phosphatidyl inositide kinase inhibitor). Pa@AuNPs exhibited significant glucose uptake in L6 myotubes with maximum uptake at 50 ng/ml. Assays were performed to study the potential of Pa@AuNPs in the inhibition of protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B, α‐glucosidases, and α‐amylase activity.Inspec keywords: molecular biophysics, biomedical materials, sugar, enzymes, nanofabrication, gold, patient treatment, organic‐inorganic hybrid materials, biochemistry, diseases, cellular biophysics, nanoparticles, toxicology, nanomedicineOther keywords: glucose uptake assay, α‐amylase activity, organic–inorganic hybrid gold nanoparticles, diabetes mellitus, heterogeneous metabolic disorder, pancreatic β‐cells, insulin resistance, propanoic acid, antidiabetic potential, antidiabetic activity, in vitro cytotoxicity, L6 myotubes, Genistein, IRTK inhibitor, Wortmannin, P13K inhibitor, protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B, α‐glucosidases, Cassia auriculata, Au     

Rapid synthesis of Bi 2 O 3 nano‐needles via ‘green route’ and evaluation of its anti‐fungal activity

Here, the authors report a rapid, simple, and eco‐friendly process for synthesis of Bi₂ O₃ nano‐needles. Dioscorea alata tuber extract was used as both reducing and capping agent for the first time. These nanoparticles were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry, the nano‐structured Bi₂ O₃ needles have an average diameter of 158 nm with the lengths in the range of 1–3 μm. CLSI M27‐A2 standard was followed for evaluation of anti‐fungal activity. Bi₂ O₃ nano‐needles show remarkable activity against Candida albicans. It exhibits four time greater activity than bulk Bi₂ O₃ powder and two time greater activity than itraconazole, which makes it a potent anti‐fungal drug.Inspec keywords: bismuth compounds, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, drugs, nanomedicine, biomedical materials, nanofabricationOther keywords: nanoneedles, antifungal activity, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, CLSI M27‐A2 standard, Candida albicans, itraconazole, antifungal drug, Bi₂ O₃