Search

In the present article we describe a facile biosynthetic method for the silver nanoparticles highlighting myconanotechnology and its antimicrobial efficacy. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourior transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. These methods allow validating the spherical nature of the produced nanoparticles ranging from 30 nm to ∼90 nm in size. The crystallinity of the nanoparticles was confirmed by XRD. The probable mechanistic aspect for the mycogenesis of the silver nanoparticles are also evaluated which would facilitate for several industrial applications based on potential antimicrobials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, rapid technological advancements have led to the development of nanoscale device components, advanced sensors, and novel biomimetic materials. Potential negative impacts of nanomaterials are sometimes overlooked during the discovery phase of research. The use of green chemistry can however enhance nanoscience by maximizing safety and efficiency while minimizing the environmental and societal impacts of nanomaterials. Here we report extracellular mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles by Alternaria alternata. The fungal biomass when exposed to aqueous silver nitrate solution leads to the formation of silver nanoparticles extracellularly. Change in colour of silver nitrate solution to brown signifies the development of silver nanoparticles. UV-Visible spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver ion showed a peak at 420 nm corresponding to the plasmon absorbance of silver nanoparticles. Agglomeration status was confirmed by Dynamic Light Scattering experiments. Atomic Force Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy explained the formation of well-dispersed silver nanoparticles in the range of 20-45 nm. X-ray Diffraction spectrum of the silver nanoparticles exhibited 20 values corresponding to the silver nanoparticles. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy confirmed the presence of a protein shell outside the nanoparticles. In this study, mycosynthesized nanoparticles were also evaluated for DNA damaging potential in human lymphocytes using comet assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]