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Surface-enhanced Raman scattering is a rapid, highly sensitive and non-destructive technique, whereas, it was still limited to designing different types of enhancing substrates or using probe molecules to only identify single biomolecules. Especially, some special biomolecules have weak Raman signals in solid state, so it is a huge challenge to obtain their enhanced Raman signals in liquid. To solve the problem, a double-enhanced Raman scattering (DERS) detection platform was developed in this study based on silver nanoparticles that were prepared by using an appropriate amount of sodium borohydride and guided by calcium ions to form good "hot spots". This enabled one to successfully obtain fingerprints of various types of biomolecules under the identical experimental conditions. The addition of sodium borohydride as reducing agent could protect silver nanoparticles from oxidation, and biomolecules were adsorbed on the exposed silver surface and demonstrated their initially enhanced Raman signals. Furthermore, the "hot spots" formed by silver nanoparticles without silver oxide coating could further enhance the Raman signal of biomolecules, making the enhancement factor up to 10 [8]. To sum up, the possibility of fast identification of different species of biomolecules via DERS has wide application prospects in the fields of biomarker detection and medical diagnosis. • The novel versatile DERS detection platform was based on dual-enhanced silver nanoparticles. • High sensitivity unlabeled detection of multiple biomolecules was directly acquired. • The fingerprints of various biomolecules were successfully obtained under the same conditions. • Compared with ordinary Raman detection, the signal is improved by 8 orders of magnitude. • DERS technology has greater application advantages in the field of life sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topical treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis holds great promise for decreasing drug associated side effects and improving efficacy. This study was aimed to develop mannosylated thiolated chitosan-coated silver nanoparticles (MTC Ag) loaded emulgel for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. MTC-Ag were synthesized via a chemical reduction method and were loaded into the emulgel. The nanoparticles had a zeta potential of +19.8 mV, an average particle size of 115 nm and a narrow polydispersity index of 0.26. In-vitro release profiles showed controlled release of silver ions from both the MTC-Ag and the emulgel-loaded MTC-Ag nanoparticles after 24 h. An ex-vivo retention study indicated 5 times higher retention of silver by the emulgel-loaded MTC-Ag than by the MTC-Ag nanoparticles. The in-vitro anti-leishmanial assay revealed that MTC-Ag had an excellent inhibitory effect on intracellular amastigotes, leading to ~90 % inhibition at the highest concentration tested. A 4-fold reduction in the IC 50 value was found for MTC-Ag compared to blank Ag nanoparticles. Cytotoxicity assay showed 83 % viability of macrophages for MTC-Ag and 30 % for Ag nanoparticles at a concentration of 80 μg/mL, demonstrating the improved biocompatibility of the polymeric nanoparticles. Drug release and retention studies corroborate the great potential of MTC-Ag-loaded emulgel for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. [Display omitted] • Mannosylated thiolated chitosan-coated Ag nanoparticles were loaded in an emulgel. • Improved release and retention of silver was observed compared to the controls. • A significant decrease in IC 50 and enhanced biocompatibility was attained. • The loaded nanoparticles show great potential for treating cutaneous leishmaniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infection and subsequent reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage are major factors that delay wound healing in infected skin. Recently, photothermal therapy (PTT), as a new antibacterial method, has shown great advantages in the treatment of infected skin wound. Antibacterial and antioxidant hydrogels can reduce bacterial colonization and infection, scavenge ROS, relieve inflammation, and accelerate wound healing. In this study, an enzyme-crosslinked hyaluronic acid-tyramine (HT) hydrogel loaded with antioxidant and photothermal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), named HTA, was developed as functional wound dressing to promote the infected skin wound healing. Natural antioxidant tannic acids (TA) were used as both reducing and stabilizing agents to facilely synthesize the silver nanoparticles capped with TA (AgNPs@TA). The incorporation of AgNPs@TA significantly enhanced the antioxidant, antibacterial, photothermal antibacterial, adhesive, and hemostatic abilities of the resulted HTA hydrogel. Besides, HTA hydrogel has rapid gelation, well injection and biocompatibility. In vivo results on the Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli co-infected mouse skin wound model showed that HTA 0.4 (containing 0.4 mg/mL AgNPs@TA) hydrogel combined with near infrared ray radiation highly alleviated inflammation, promoted angiogenesis, and accelerated the healing process. Therefore, this nanocomposite hydrogel wound dressing with antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities has great application potential in the treatment of infected skin wounds. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, polyurethane (PU) and cellulose acetate (CA) electrospun fibers encapsulating rosemary essential oil (REO) and adsorbed silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated. The biologically inspired materials were analyzed for physicochemical characteristics using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared, thermal gravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, water contact angle, and water uptake studies. Results confirmed the presence of CA and Ag NPs on the PU micro-nanofibers increased the hydrophilicity from 107.1 ± 0.36o to 26.35 ± 1.06o. The water absorption potential increased from 0.07 ± 0.04 for pristine PU fibers to 12.43 ± 0.49 % for fibers with 7 wt% of CA, REO, and Ag NPs. The diffractometer confirmed the 2θ of 38.01°, 44.13o, and 64.33o, corresponding to the diffraction planes of Ag on the fibers. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed microfibers interfacial chemical interaction and surface changes due to CA, REO, and Ag presence. The inhibition tests on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli indicated that composites are antibacterial in activity. Moreover, synergistic interactions of REO and Ag NPs resulted in superior antibacterial activity. The cell viability and attachment assay showed improved hydrophilicity of the fibers, which resulted in better attachment of cells to the micro-nanofibers, similar to the natural extracellular matrix in the human body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modified magnetite chitosan with silver nanoparticles was synthesized and tested for removing cationic and anionic dyes in aqueous solutions. Initial dye concentration, pH, and contact time were examined. Results showed that pH (4.0) was optimal for removing anionic dyes (methyl orange) and pH 8.0 for removing cationic dyes (methylene blue). According to these results, zeta potentials were found to be 8.43 and − 39.17 mV at pH 4.0 and 8.0, respectively. So, it is attracted to positively charged cationic dyes in an alkaline medium and negatively charged anionic dyes in an acidic medium because of their opposite charges. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and zeta potential measurements were used to characterize the synthesized nanosorbents. A pseudo-second-order kinetic model is fitted with the Langmuir adsorption model, with an adsorption capacity of 417 and 476 mg/g for methyl orange and methylene blue, respectively. For both dyes, modified magnetite chitosan with silver nanoparticles showed high regeneration capability and recovery for up to four cycles without adsorption efficiency loss. Furthermore, modified magnetite chitosan with silver nanoparticles, as prepared in the present study, was demonstrated to be an effective adsorbent for organic pollutants in wastewater. • A novel modified magnetite chitosan with silver nanoparticles was successfully prepared. • The magnetite chitosan with silver nanoparticles exhibited superior adsorption capacity toward cationic and anionic dyes. • Based on theoretical calculations, the maximum adsorption capacities for MB and MO were 476 mg/g and 417 mg/g, respectively. • CS/Fe 3 O 4 /AgNPs showed high regeneration capability and recovery for up to four cycles without adsorption efficiency loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, chitosan-coated biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNP-CH) were obtained through green chemistry by recycling wheat crop leaf residues. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-VIS spectroscopy, and total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the nanoparticle formation, and the incorporation of chitosan surrounding silver nanoparticles. The size and morphology of nanoparticles were evaluated by microscopy techniques, showing a size range of 2–10 nm, with spherical shape and narrow distribution. The antifungal assay indicated a higher antimicrobial activity showing values of minimum inhibitory concentrations of 41.7 μg/mL against Fusarium oxysporum , and 208.37 μg/mL for Aspergillus niger , A. versicolor and A. brasiliensis. Finally, non-phytotoxic effects were observed in germination assays at early plant stage of development, and an increase in chlorophyll levels were observed at the doses tested with AgNP-CH. Thus, the use of AgNP-CH could be a potential alternative for the prevention of fungal infections in cereals in the early stages of wheat crop development. [Display omitted] • Biogenic Silver nanoparticles obtained from wheat leaf waste. • Chitosan coating avoid the aggregation of silver nanoparticles. • Chitosan coating improve the antifungal activity against pathogenic fungi in cereals. • Chitosan-coated silver nanoparticles increase chorophyll synthesis in treated seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)/carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (Ag-cCNC) from Eucalyptus pulp were prepared using a three-step process. The cCNC were synthesized by oxidation of CNC from Eucalyptus pulp with ammonium persulfate, followed by a hydrothermal reaction to form Ag-cCNC. The Ag-cCNC was then characterized with respect to Ag+ release, flow behavior, and anticancer activity for potential applications in biomedicine and drug delivery. AgNPs with particle sizes in the range of 16.25 ± 7.83 to 21.84 ± 7.21 nm were uniformly embedded on the surface of the cCNC. The Ag-cCNC exhibited a slow and controllable release of Ag+ at a rate of 0.02 % per day for 28 days. Ag+ release was best described by the Korsmeyer–Peppas model based on non-Fickian diffusion. The Ag-cCNC at 200 μg/mL exerted antiproliferative activity in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells with 1.01 % ± 0.35 % cell viability and was non-toxic against normal Vero cells with 90 % viability. In contrast, the chemotherapeutic drug melphalan exhibited cytotoxic effects against both MCF-7 and Vero cells. The Ag-cCNC samples showed shear thinning properties with a pseudoplastic fluid behavior, indicating that Ag-cCNCs are suitable for drug delivery by injection. • Ag-cCNC was prepared from silver nanoparticles and carboxylated cellulose nanocrystal (cCNC). • Controllable release of silver ions with a rate of 0.04 % per 2 days for 28 days • Ag+ release was best described by Korsmeyer–Peppas model based on non-Fickian diffusion. • Ag-cCNC showed anticancer activity against MFC-7 and safety in Vero cells. • Ag-cCNC had shear thinning properties rendering it suitable for drug delivery by injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is popular that natural organics are served as green reducing and end-capping reagent for synthesis of functional nanoparticles. In this study, curcumin, a natural pigment, was employed to prepare silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a coloring, reducing and end-capping agent by an eco-friendly, economic and facile approach in the presence of different clay minerals, including palygorskite, montmorillonite and mixed-dimensional palygorskite clay. It was found that the phenolic hydroxyl groups or carbonyl groups of curcumin played a crucial role to reduce silver ions into AgNPs with the ginger color. Meanwhile, incorporation of clay minerals could induce the in-situ heterogeneous nucleation of AgNPs on the surface or/and interlayer of the involved clay minerals. It effectively prevented from the aggregations and resulted in uniform dispersion of AgNPs with a diameter of 30–40 nm. Furthermore, the as-prepared nanocomposites exhibited a higher antioxidant (>90%) and antibacterial activity. Due to the synergistic effect of each component among the nanocompositions, the nanocomposites derived from different clay minerals were employed as multifunctional nanofillers to design functional chitosan composite films. By contrast, the chitosan composite films containing curcumin-capped AgNPs/mixed-dimensional palygorskite clay nanocomposites exhibited the best mechanical properties, antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Compared with the chitosan films, the tensile strength and elongation at break of composite films increased by 15.90 MPa and 27.27%, respectively. The inactivation rate of the composite films against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus had reached 100%. Therefore, the obtained composite film with the ginger color exhibited excellent mechanical, water resistance, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, and it was expected to develop a great potential functional packaging materials. • AgNPs/Cur/clay minerals nanocomposites were synthesized by a green one-pot method. • Clay minerals as a support induced the in-situ heterogeneous nucleation of AgNPs. • AgNPs/Cur/clay minerals exhibited a higher antioxidant and antibacterial activity. • AgNPs/Cur/clay minerals enhanced mechanical properties and bioactivities of CS films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food spoilage caused by bacterial growth is a serious threat to human health. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have antibacterial activity against various pathogenic microorganisms, but their rapid release often leads to cumulative toxicity. In this paper, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs@CG) were reduced and immobilized in situ using gallic acid-functionalized chitosan (CG) as a reducing and stabilizing agent to achieve a long-lasting and stable controlled release of Ag+. The AgNPs@CG was incorporated into the CG/PVA composite film. The results showed that the release of Ag+ was only 0.686 ± 0.022 mg·L−1 after seven days, which had a long-lasting antibacterial effect on E. coli and S. aureus. In addition, CG/PVA/AgNPs-2 composite film can significantly improve the freshness preservation effect in fresh-cut apple preservation applications. In conclusion, CG/PVA/AgNPs composite film has potential applications as effective and safe packaging material to extend the shelf life of food products. • Gallic acid-functionalized chitosan to obtain with better water solubility, reducing and antioxidant capacity • AgNPs@CG is prepared by in-situ reduction using gallic acid-functionalized chitosan. • CG/PVA/AgNPs laminate films are promising packaging films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laminarin is a promising marine biopolymer that is abundant, non-toxic, and biodegradable. However, laminarin has a weak reduction potential for metal ions, resulting in the synthesis of a lower content of large-sized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Here, we showed that after the introduction of aldehyde groups, the reduction potential of laminarin increased, decreasing the synthesis time and increasing the density of AgNPs. 1H NMR and FT-IR confirmed the addition of aldehyde groups on laminarin. The dialdehyde-modified laminarin (DLAM) showed in situ , simple, and rapid synthesis of ultrasmall-sized spherical AgNPs (<10 nm), as revealed by TEM images. The aldehyde and carboxyl groups of DLAM act as synchronized reducing and anchoring agents. The conversion of Ag ions into AgNPs-DLAM was confirmed by UV–Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, XRD, and XPS analysis. The AgNPs-DLAM showed significantly enhanced antibacterial activities than silver ions against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus via causing morphological changes and pore formations in bacterial cells. The AgNPs-DLAM also inhibited bacterial biofilm formation. In contrast, the AgNPs-DLAM showed negligible toxicity toward human keratinocytes. Furthermore, AgNPs-DLAM increased the migration of human keratinocytes, indicating efficient wound healing properties. Thus, signifying the importance of AgNPs-DLAM in clinical applications. • Laminarin has a weak reduction potential to reduce silver ions into AgNPs. • Dialdehyde modification of Laminarin increased its Ag+ reducing ability. • DLAM can rapidly reduce Ag+ into ultrasmall AgNPs by avoiding toxic chemicals and high temperatures. • Biofabricated AgNPs-DLAM exhibited potential antibacterial and wound healing properties. • AgNPs-DLAM might serve as a biocompatible dressing for the treatment of wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive hemorrhage caused by accident or surgery is a major factor in accidental death. In addition, bacterial infection is also an important threat after bleeding. Cryogels with interpenetrating macroporous structures pose great application prospects in rapid hemostasis and infected wound repair. In this study, cryogels with different pore size are prepared by carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and dopamine (DA). The CMC grafted with different DA amounts is crosslinked by free DA through oxidative polymerization at low temperatures to form cryogels with different pore sizes. And the CMC/DA-3 cryogel is chosen as the optimal group for its high porosity, suitable mechanical, and good hemostatic ability. CMC/DA-3 cryogel is loaded with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) to prepare hemostatic cryogel with antibacterial properties. Antibacterial tests and animal hemostasis experiments confirm that the CMC/DA-3/Ag cryogel has good antibacterial properties and can finish rapid hemostasis. In the S. aureus infection skin defect model, the wound healing is significantly improved compared with commercial gelatin sponge. In summary, the novel cryogel has great potential in rapid hemostasis and infected wound healing. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abdominal wall defects are often accompanied by severe infections and complications, creating a significant challenge for clinicians. There is an urgent need to develop a novel wound dressing that can effectively prevent intra-abdominal infection and promote the healing of defective abdominal walls. Based on a hydrogel dressing containing hyaluronic acid (HA) and gelatin (GT), herein we integrated dopamine with a catechol structure to enhance its antioxidant and adherent properties. HA is oxidized to form an aldehyde group, and subsequently grafted with dopamine. The dopamine-modified HA undergoes amidation reaction with GT at different concentrations. In addition, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were introduced to the hydrogel to enhance the antibacterial properties. The in vitro studies on GT/DA-HA demonstrated excellent physical and chemical properties, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. In a rat full-thickness skin defect model and a full-thickness abdominal wall defect model, the GT/DA-HA hydrogel could accelerate the healing process by improving wet adhesion, reducing wound inflammation, and promoting angiogenesis and formation of granulation tissues. The multifunctional hydrogel developed in this study shows great potential for treating full-thickness abdominal wall defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide-based guar gum (GG) biopolymer is used via a hydrothermal process to synthesize silver nanoparticles. The GG biopolymer act as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Moreover, GG was used for preparing peel-off masks to provide the desired consistency of formulation and synthesis of nanoparticles as an antibacterial agent. This work presents the novel GG/Ag nanoparticles peel-off gel and evaluates the antibacterial efficiency. The synthesized Ag-nanoparticles analyzed by UV–spectroscopy reflect a prominent peak at 413 nm. The size and distribution of nanoparticles were examined by TEM images obtained from the 6 to 18 nm range. We demonstrate the efficiency of peel-off facial gel as an antibacterial and preservative-free cosmetic product at different temperature ranges. The RSM study was used for parameter optimization of peel-off gel for extrudability, spreadability, and drying time by employing a CCD. The results show that the optimized GG, PVA, and ethanol concentration were 3.47, 8.30, and 5.80 w/w%, respectively, with 0.02 w/w% Ag nanoparticles. The peel-off gel antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (11 ± 0.1 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (10 ± 0.3 mm), and Propionibacterium acnes (11 ± 0.3 mm). The peel-off gel was prepared from natural ingredients; due to this, it is non-toxic for human skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infection causes wound inflammation and slows wound healing, posing a great threat to human health, which needs to explore more antibacterial nanobiomaterials to promote wound healing. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop low-cost silver/Fe 3 O 4 @Chitosan@polyvinyl alcohol (Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA) via a one-pot method to promote healing in bacteria-infected wounds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) confirmed that Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA was successfully prepared. In vitro antibacterial experiments demonstrated strong antibacterial activity of Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA destroyed the bacterial cell membrane or internal structure, thus resulting in cell death for antibacterial effects. Cytotoxicity and hemolysis rate tests showed that Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA posed fine biocompatibility. In addition, in vivo assays confirmed that Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA not only promoted the healing of wound infection caused by bacteria, but also had no toxic effect on mouse organs. Therefore, the low-cost Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA nanocomposites have great potential in controlling 'bacterial' pathogen. [Display omitted] • A low-cost Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA nanocomposite was synthesized via a one-pot method. • Ag/Fe 3 O 4 @CS@PVA had strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. • The Ag/Fe3O4@CS@PVA destroyed the integrity of cell structure, causing cell death. • Ag/Fe3O4@CS@PVA could promote the healing of wound infection caused by S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wound healing is a significant clinical and socioeconomic problem that is often affected by microbial infection. Inappropriate monitoring leads to unfavorable concerns for surrounding tissues. Cotton gauzes have been used as low-cost wound dressing material but prolong healing owing to strong adherence and secondary microbial infections. Hence, we prepared the bimetallic (silver and platinum) nanoparticles (AgPt NPs) using citric acid (CA) as a reducing agent and then coated them on chitosan (CS) fabricated cotton gauze (CG) for enhanced antimicrobial and wound healing applications. The synthesis of AgPt NPs was evidenced UV–Visible spectroscopy, FE-TEM, and elemental mapping analysis. The average size of AgPt NPs was 21.48 ± 6.32 nm and spherical in structure. Besides, AgPt NPs showed a hydrodynamic size of 63.64 (d.nm) with a polydispersity index of 0.220 and a zeta potential of −28.1 mV. The FT-IR and XRD analysis demonstrated the functional changes and crystalline properties of AgPt NPs. The antimicrobial efficacy of AgPt NPs was significantly higher than standard antibiotic against bacteria, yeast, and filamentous fungi. Furthermore, the AgPt NPs-CS/CG exhibited a substantial hydrophobic nature with better antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. In addition, pH-dependent Ag and Pt release from the AgPt NPs-CS/CG was determined by ICP-MS analysis. The treatment of AgPt NPs-CS/CG augmented the in vitro wound healing in mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (NIH3T3). Hence, we concluded that AgPt NPs-CS/CG could be used to enhance antimicrobial and wound healing applications. [Display omitted] • Bimetallic AgPt NPs were synthesized using citric acid in a one-pot synthesis method. • AgPt NPs coated chitosan (CS) fabricated cotton gauze (CG) was prepared for wound healing. • Ag, Pt, and AgPt NPs exhibited potent antioxidant activity. • The AgPt NPs-CS/CG exhibited the potent antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. • CS-AgPt NPs augment the cell proliferation in NIH3T3 cells was tested in a scratch assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the problems of poor mechanical property, non-antibacterial and low flux of calcium alginate (CaAlg) membrane, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) for improving CaAlg membrane in this paper. Meanwhile, the dispersion property of silver nanoparticles and the mechanical property, thermal stability, antibacterial property and filtration efficiency of the composite membrane were explored. The results illustrated CMCS observably strengthened the mechanical property and thermal stability of the composite membrane, and AgNPs endowed the composite membrane with excellent antibacterial property. The flux of the BSA/CMCS/AgNPs/CaAlg composite membrane was raised compared to CaAlg membrane. Finally, the viscose fiber/polyethylene terephthalate fiber (VF-PET) nonwoven fabric was introduced as the support layer to further improve the filtration flux and mechanical property of the composite membrane. VF-PET/BSA/CMCS/AgNPs/CaAlg membrane had a rejection rate of over 99.0 % for dye molecules and <9.0 % for salt ions, while the flux maintained 38.5 L·m−2·h−1. Furthermore, VF-PET/BSA/CMCS/AgNPs/CaAlg membrane also had excellent separation effect on actual dye wastewater. The separation of dye and salt by the membrane mainly depended on the screening mechanism of membrane pore size, rather than adsorption. The composite membrane had an outstanding performance on the separation of dye molecules and inorganic salt ions. [Display omitted] • Stable and uniformly dispersed BSA/CMCS/AgNPs was prepared. • BSA/CMCS/AgNPs/CaAlg membrane showed high mechanical property and excellent antibacterial property. • BSA/CMCS/AgNPs/CaAlg membrane had excellent separation efficiency of dye/salt. • Nonwovens with hydrophilic and hydrophobic sides improved the membrane flux and was expected to industrialize the membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogel materials are gradually increasing research in biological aspects due to their unique properties. In order to prepare hydrogels with the potential to be used in clinical wound therapy, the authors prepared a bifunctional hydrogel with antibacterial and self-healing properties. The hydrogel was composed of borax cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS), which realizes self-healing between polymers through hydrogen bonds and borate ester bonds. The double cross-linking of hydrogen bonds and borate ester bonds also endows the hydrogel with better mechanical properties (toughness and tensile stress can reach 22.30 MJ/m3 and 70.35 KPa, respectively). On this basis, adding highly stable silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to the hydrogel can effectively inhibit the growth of E. coli and S. aureus. This idea provides the possibility for the application of hydrogels in the process of biological wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the study, leaf extract of Carica papaya was utilized for the biogenic fabrication process of chitosan functionalized silver nanoparticles (Ag-Chito NPs). HRTEM analysis revealed that the fabricated Ag-Chito NPs was spherical in shape, with an average particle size of 13.31 (±0.07) nm. FTIR, UV–Vis, DLS, and other characterizations were also performed to analyze the diverse physicochemical properties of the particles. The antibacterial potency of the synthesized Ag-Chito NPs was tested against the two clinically isolated multidrug resistant uropathogenic bacterial strains, i.e. MLD 2 (Escherichia coli) and MLD 4 (Staphylococcus aureus) through MIC, MBC, time and concentration dependent killing kinetic assay, inhibition of biofilm formation assay, fluorescence and SEM imaging. Significantly, Ag-Chito NPs showed the highest sensitivity against the MLD 2 (MIC value of 12.5 μg/mL) strain, as compared to the MLD 4 (MIC value of 15 μg/mL) strain. From the hemolysis assay, it was revealed that Ag-Chito NPs exerted no significant toxicity up to 50 μg/mL against healthy human blood cells. Additionally, in silico analysis of chitosan (functionalized on the surface of AgNPs) and bacterial cell membrane protein also evidently suggested a strong interaction between Ag-Chito NPs and bacterial cells, which might be responsible for bacterial cell death. • Biogenic fabrication of chitosan functionalized silver nanoparticles. • Promising antibacterial potency against multidrug resistant bacterial strain • Fabricated nanoparticles hold promising cytocompatibility. • Molecular docking explains the interaction of the particle with bacterial proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, alginate@silver nanoparticles (Alg@AgNPs) bionanocomposite has been fabricated successfully and further explored for the removal of crystal violet (CV) dye from the aqueous solution. The surface morphology of the (Alg@AgNPs) bionanocomposite was characterized by various modern analytical techniques such as SEM-EDX, TEM, FTIR and XRD. The maximum adsorption was observed at optimum condition of (pH 7, adsorbent dose 0.01 g, equilibrium time 240 min and initial concentration 20 mg L−1). The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity was found to be 186.93 mg g−1 at 30 °C. The experimental data were further validated by various isotherm models and on the basis of highest correlation coefficient (R2, 0.99), Langmuir model was found to be best fitted model. Pseudo-second order kinetic model obeyed best for the experimental data with a highest correlation coefficient (R2, 0.99) at all studied temperature. In thermodynamic studies, the positive value of enthalpy change (∆ H 0 ) and entropy change (∆ S 0 ) confirmed the process to be endothermic and spontaneous in nature. Desorption studies shows that 83 % of the adsorbed CV can be desorbed in first cycle and can be regenerated up to 4th cycle effectively with 0.1 M HCl. Therefore, (Alg@AgNPs) bionanocomposite could be harnessed as a potential adsorbent for the removal of hazardous CV dye from the waste water. • Alginate@silver nanoparticles (Alg@AgNPs) bionanocomposite has been fabricated successfully. • The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity was found to be 186.93 mg g−1 at 30 °C. • Langmuir model was found to be best-fitted model. • Desorption data showed that above 83 % of CV by using 0.1 M HCl could be desorbed in a first cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acinetobacter baumannii is an ESKAPE pathogen responsible for severe nosocomial infections. Among all the mechanisms contributing to multidrug resistance, efflux pumps have gained significant attention due to their widespread distribution among bacterial species and broad substrate specificity. This study has investigated the diverse roles of efflux pumps present in carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) and screen an efflux pump inhibitor. The result showed the presence of AdeABC, AdeFGH, AdeIJK, and AbeM efflux pumps in CRAB, and experimental studies using gene mutants demonstrated the significant role of AdeABC in carbapenem resistance, biofilm formation, surface motility, pathogenesis, bacterial adherence, and invasion to the host cells. The structure-based ligand screening, molecular mechanics, molecular dynamics simulation, and experimental validation using efflux pump mutants and antibiotic accumulation assay identified naringin dihydrochalcone (NDC) as the lead against AdeB. This lead was selected as a capping agent for silver nanoparticles. The NDC-capped silver nanoparticles (NDC-AgNPs) were characterized by UV-spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The investigated molecular mechanism showed that the NDC-AgNPs possessed multiple mechanisms of action. In addition to efflux inhibitory activity, it also generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species as well as causes change in the electrochemical gradient in CRAB. The proton gradient is important for the function of AdeABC; hence altering the electrochemical gradient also disrupts its efflux activity. Moreover, A. baumannii did not develop any resistance against NDC-AgNPs till several generations which were investigated. The NDC-AgNPs were also found to be effective against carbapenem-resistant clinical isolates of A. baumannii. Therefore, the present study provided an insight into the efflux pump mediated carbapenem resistance and possible inhibitor NDC-AgNPs to combat AdeABC efflux pump mediated resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective treatment of infected wounds requires a comprehensive wound dressing with a combination of antibacterial, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects. Biodegradable wound dressings incorporating nanostructured material were developed using polyvinyl alcohol with xanthan gum, hypromellose, or sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and extensively evaluated for antibacterial and wound healing efficacy. Synthesized silver nanoparticles and wound dressings displayed λ max at 420 nm with zeta potential ≈ − 35 mV. Significant growth inhibition with >99 % reduction in CFU/ml (p < 0.05) against important wound pathogens including Acinetobacter baumannii , Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumoniae , Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus , Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans were observed. Within 1 h of treatment, hypromellose nanocomposite demonstrated excellent bactericidal effects with a 99.9 % of reduction in growth. In addition, wound dressings demonstrated inhibitory activities against free radical scavengers. Wound dressings demonstrated a significant reduction in the inflammatory response in RAW 264.7 macrophages (p < 0.001). Ex-vivo diffusion demonstrated zero-order release and steady-state flux between 0.1571–0.2295 μg/ml/cm2h with 0.124–0.144 permeability coefficient after 10 h. Usage in animals further confirmed that the hypromellose nanocomposite accelerated the wound healing process with biocompatibility. The results suggested that hybrid biodegradable dressings can be effectively applied to treat infected wounds and attenuate inflammatory responses. • Nanomaterials incorporated wound dressing showed effectiveness against potential wound pathogens. • Wound dressing demonstrated enhanced haemostatsis with cell regenerations efficacy. • Dermal dressings exhibited >80 % of cell viability against HaCaT, L9292, and Raw 264.7 cells. • Usage on animals revealed hypromellose nanocomposite accelerated the wound healing and tissue regeneration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel antibacterial strategy is urgently required to develop for solving bacterial biofilm obstruction and bacterial drug resistance in the infected wound healing process. Herein, the Chitosan/ Bletilla striata polysaccharide composited microneedles were prepared by chitosan, tannic acid, AgNO 3 and Bletilla striata polysaccharide through step centrifugation. In our design system, the porous structure of microneedles gradually disappeared, and the mechanical properties were significantly improved after multiple fillings. Ag+ is reduced in-situ to silver nanoparticles by the abundant polyphenols of tannic acid, displaying antibacterial effects both in vitro and vivo , even for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The addition of Bletilla striata polysaccharide increased the ability of piercing biofilm and promoted wound healing. The microneedles exhibited good biocompatibility and with function of piercing the bacterial biofilms, scavenging excessive free radicals, inhibiting inflammatory factors, and promoting wound healing. Therefore, the multifunctional composited microneedles show great potential to promote infected and susceptible wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly-sensitive technology to detect trace target analytes. Herein, a series of flexible SERS substrate for the detection of malachite green (MG) bactericide were developed via in situ photochemical synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) based on two dimentional (2D) nanocellulose film without additional reducing agent. For the first time, silver nanocubes (AgNCs) with sharp edges and corners, which are conductive to the formation of hot spots, were successfully prepared and uniformly loaded on the nanocellulose film by controlling the reaction conditions. The obtained composite SERS substrate showed high sensitivity to Rhodamine 6G (R6G) and MG with limit of detection (LOD) of 4.7 × 10−12 and 1.2 × 10−8 g/L, respectively. In addition, the relative standard deviation (RSD) was calculated lower than 15 %, demonstrating the good detection reproducibility. The nanocellulose-based 2D SERS substrate shows the potential as a detection platform in the rapid and sensitive identification of various toxic and harmful pollutants. • Silver nanocubes were in-situ loaded on nanocellulose film via photochemical reduction. • Green synthesis process was adopted without harmful reducing agents and surfactants. • 2D SERS substrate with uniform and dense "hot spots" was successfully constructed. • SERS detection of malachite green with high sensitivity and reproducibility was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were widely used in the antibacterial field because of their excellent antibacterial properties. In this study, we used hesperidin and pectin as reductants and stabilizers, and prepared uniform and stable Hesperidin-Pectin AgNPs (HP-AgNPs) by a simple microwave-assisted process. Increasing the proportion of hesperidin, P-AgNPs, HP-AgNPs1, HP-AgNPs2 and H-AgNPs were obtained respectively. With the increase of hesperidin ratio, the mean particle size and zeta potential increased gradually. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that Ag+ was reduced by hesperidin and pectin. Antibacterial tests showed that HP-AgNPs2 showed the MIC values of 66.7 μg/mL against E. coli. In addition, HP-AgNPs2 was selected to clarify its antibacterial mechanism against E. coli. Morphological experiments showed that HP-AgNPs2 stress caused damage to the cell wall of E. coli , as well as leakage of its contents and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS). On the other hand, the release of Ag+ during cell co-culture was studied and the results showed that most of the Ag+ released was taken up by E. coli. The synergistic effect of hesperidin and pectin resulted in a significant enhancement of the antibacterial properties of AgNPs. These preliminary data suggest that HP-AgNPs has good antibacterial activity and may be developed as an effective antibacterial nanomaterial. • Synergistic preparation of silver nanoparticles from hesperidin and pectin. • The synergistic effect enhances the antibacterial effect of nanosilver effectively. • The action of nano‑silver on bacteria leads to the destruction of their cell walls and leakage of their contents. • Most of the Ag+ released by nanosilver is absorbed by E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) for catalysis and biological applications has gained great interest. Natural elm pods are a type of food that possesses anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. In this study, elm pod polysaccharide (EPP) was extracted from elm pods using hot water extraction for the first time. Biocompatible EPP-stabilized silver nanoparticles (EPP-Ag n NPs) were prepared by using a green synthesis method. The EPP-Ag 25 NPs had a hydrodynamic size of 40.9 nm and a highly negative surface charge of −27.4 mV. Furthermore, EPP-Ag 25 NPs exhibited high catalytic activity for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol, and the catalytic reaction followed a pseudo-first order kinetic equation. More importantly, the inhibition rate of EPP-Ag 25 NPs on Escherichia coli was 71 % when samples were treated with an 808 nm laser. Besides, EPP-Ag n NPs effectively inhibited the proliferation of tumor cells irradiated by an 808 nm laser. The improved performance of EPP-Ag n NPs was due to the good stability of EPP. Taken together, EPP-Ag n NPs had good stability, catalytic activity, antibacterial and antitumor ability under laser irradiation. EPP is a good stabilizer for many nanoparticles which have broad applications in the field of catalysis and biomedicine in the future. [Display omitted] • Elm pod polysaccharide (EPP) was extracted from elm pod for the first time. • The size of silver nanoparticles inside of EPP-Ag n NPs was from 22.5 to 30.0 nm. • EPP-Ag 25 NPs displayed high catalytic reduction reaction for 4-nitrophenol. • EPP-Ag 25 NPs exhibited stable photothermal conversion ability. • EPP-Ag 25 NPs had excellent antibacterial property against Escherichia coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique structural characteristics and superior biocompatibility make the protein nanofibers promising immobilization platforms/substrates for catalysts/enzymes. Metal nanoparticles have been employed as the catalysts in industries due to their excellent catalytic activity and stability, whereas their high surface energy leads to nanoparticle aggregation, thereby hampering their catalytic performance. Here, amyloid fibril (AF) derived from whey protein isolate (WPI) was chosen as the support of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) and utilized for the catalytic reduction of methylene blue (MB). The one-dimensional amyloid-based hybrid materials (AgNP/WPI-AF) were first synthesized via chemical or photochemical route. The characterization of AgNP/WPI-AF by UV–vis spectrophotometry and electron microscopy revealed that the sizes of AgNP on WPI-AF's surface ranged from 2 to 30 nm. Next, the catalytic performances of AgNP/WPI-AF prepared by various routes for MB degradation were investigated. Additionally, the kinetic data were analyzed using two different models and the apparent rate constants and thermodynamic parameters were further determined accordingly. Moreover, the reusability of AgNP/WPI-AF was assessed by monitoring the percentage removal of MB over consecutive filtering cycles. Our results indicated that Langmuir-Hinshelwood-type mechanism better described the catalytic MB reduction using AgNP/WPI-AF. This work provides a nice example of application of nanoparticle-amyloid fibril composite materials for catalysis. [Display omitted] • Silver nanoparticles/whey protein isolate fibrils (AgNP/WPI-AF) were synthesized. • AgNP/WPI-AF were synthesized via chemical or photochemical reduction route. • Catalytic activity of AgNP/WPI-AF was evaluated by methylene blue (MB) reduction. • Langmuir–Hinshelwood model better describes AgNP/WPI-AF catalyzed-MB reduction. • Chemically synthesized AgNP/WPI-AF show better reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide-based composites embedding silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) represent a promising alternative to common antimicrobial materials because of the effective, broad-spectrum biocidal properties of AgNPs combined with the biocompatibility and environmental safety of the naturally occurring polymeric component. In this work, AgNPs stabilized with alginate chains (Alg@AgNPs) were successfully synthesized in situ within the polysaccharide solution through a wet chemical approach carried out at different concentrations of the silver salt precursor. Once obtained, the aqueous suspensions were electrospun to prepare non-woven membranes, showing a homogeneous nanostructured texture (with fiber diameter between 100 and 150 nm), which was found to be influenced by the size (between 20 and 35 nm) of the embedded metal nanoparticles. The biocidal potential of the nanocomposite mats was preliminarily tested against Gram-negative E. coli. The results showed that the antimicrobial response of the investigated samples occurred within a day of incubation and can be observed for AgNPs content in the polysaccharide fibers far below the nanomolar regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fabrication of hydrogel for sensing purposes remains to be a challenge since the hydrogel needs to have both good mechanical strength and adhesiveness. This work reports a robust and adhesive hydrogel mainly constructed with AgNPs@lignin, polyacrylamide (PAM) and sodium alginate (SA). The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were in-situ generated via the reaction between lignin and silver ammonia ([Ag(NH 3) 2 ]+). The resultant lignin hybrid hydrogel exhibited a stress, strain and tearing energy up to 0.055 MPa, 1000% and 250 J·m−2, respectively. Furthermore, the hydrogel adhered to different materials with an adhesion energy of higher than 230 J·m−2. This hydrogel was demonstrated to be an ideal sensing material since it could detect both large-scale motions and tiny physiological signals including breathing and pulse. The hydrogel also exhibited good antibacterial performance and biocompatibility. This work provides a good example to design a lignin-based high-performance hydrogel material for sensing purposes. • A new lignin-based hydrogel system designed. • AgNPs@lignin rendering adhesive properties to the hydrogel. • Lignin hybrid hydrogel monitoring physiological signals of human body. • Lignin hybrid hydrogel exhibiting good antibacterial performance and biocompatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial cellulose (BC) was used as a reinforcing agent, citric acid (CA) as a cross-linking agent, and CMC@AgNPs as antibacterial nanomaterials, in which CMC@AgNPs were reduced from AgNO 3 in situ by carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a reducing agent and stabilizer to fight microbial corruption. Its potential application in packaging fresh meat has been investigated. Results showed that the antibacterial CMC@AgNPs/BC/CA aerogels with excellent structural integrity and outstanding water absorption were developed by adding 0.3% BC and 0.25% CA. The CMC@AgNPs/BC/CA aerogel significantly reduced the color change and the total viable bacterial counts (TVC) in fresh meat after 7 days of refrigerated storage. The results indicated that CMC@AgNPs/BC/CA aerogels can effectively extend the shelf life of fresh meat, and can be used for meat packaging as a biologically active absorption pad. [Display omitted] • Preparation of an antibacterial aerogel decorated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). • Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were used to prepare CMC@AgNPs in situ. • Bacterial cellulose (BC) was used to strengthen the CMC@AgNPs/BC/CA aerogels. • The citric acid (CA) was used as non-toxic cross-linking agent. • The aerogels had high bacteriostatic effect and had good preservation for fresh beef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic reduction of p -nitrophenol is usually carried out using transition metal nanoparticles such as gold, palladium, silver, and copper, especially palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs), which are characterized by fast reaction rate, high turnover frequency, good selectivity, and high yield. However, the aggregation and precipitation of the metals lead to the decomposition of the catalyst, which results in a significant reduction of the catalytic activity. Therefore, the preparation of homogeneous stabilized palladium nanoparticles catalysts has been widely studied. Stabilized palladium nanoparticles mainly use synthetic polymers. Cellulose microspheres, as a natural polymer material with low-cost and porous fiber network structure, are excellent carriers for stabilizing metal nanoparticles. Cellulose microspheres impregnated with palladium metal nanoparticles were carbonized to have a larger specific surface area and highly dispersed palladium nanoparticles, which exhibited excellent catalytic activity in the catalytic reduction of p -nitrophenol. In this work, the cellulose carbon-based microspheres palladium (Pd@CCM) catalysts were designed and characterized by SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR, XPS, TGA, BET, and so on. Furthermore, the catalytic performance of Pd@CCM catalysts was investigated via p -nitrophenol reduction, which showed high catalytic activity. This catalyst also exhibited excellent catalytic performance in the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction. Linking aromatic monomer and benzene through Suzuki-Miyaura coupling was presented as an effective route to obtaining biaryls, and the synthesis method is low-cost and simple. In addition, Pd@CCM showed desirable recyclability while maintaining its catalytic activity even after five recycles. This work is highly suggestive of the design and application of the heterogeneous catalyst. [Display omitted] • The large specific surface area of Pd@CCM results in high dispersion of the loaded Pd NPs. • Pd@CCM catalysts for catalytic reduction of p -nitrophenol with high efficiency and recyclability • Pd@CCM catalysts simultaneously exhibited high catalytic activity in Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental implant success is threatened by peri-implantitis, an inflammation leading to implant failure. Conventional treatments struggle with the intricate microbial and host factors involved. Antibacterial membranes, acting as barriers and delivering antimicrobials, may offer a promising solution. Thus, this study highlights the potential of developing antibacterial membranes of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate and silver nanoparticles (Ag Nps) to address peri-implantitis challenges, discussing design and efficacy against potential pathogens. Electrospun membranes composed of PHB microfibers and Ag Nps were synthesized in a blend of DMF/chloroform at three different concentrations. Various studies were conducted on the characterization and antimicrobial activity of the membranes. The synthesized Ag Nps ranged from 4 to 8 nm in size. Furthermore, Young's modulus decreased, reducing from 13.308 MPa in PHB membranes without Ag Nps to 0.983 MPa in PHB membranes containing higher concentrations of Ag Nps. This demonstrates that adding Ag Nps results in a less stiff membrane. An increase in elongation at break was noted with the rise in Ag Nps concentration, from 23.597 % in PHB membranes to 60.136 % in PHB membranes loaded with Ag Nps. The antibiotic and antibiofilm activity of the membranes were evaluated against Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Staphylococcus aureus , Streptococcus mutans , and Candida albicans. The results indicated that all PHB membranes containing Ag Nps exhibited potent antibacterial activity by inhibiting the growth of biofilms and planktonic bacteria. However, inhibition of C. albicans occurred only with the PHB-Ag Nps C membrane. These findings emphasize the versatility and potential of Ag Nps-incorporated membranes as a multifunctional approach for preventing and addressing microbial infections associated with peri-implantitis. The combination of antibacterial and antibiofilm properties in these membranes holds promise for improving the management and treatment of peri-implantitis-related complications. • The study involved synthesizing silver nanoparticles (Ag Nps) into the Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) solution. • PHB solution containing silver nanoparticles was electrospun to develop scaffolds for tissue regeneration. • The antimicrobial activity of the PHB/Ag Nps scaffolds was evaluated over four different microorganisms. • The scaffolds loaded with Ag Nps showed a strong antibacterial activity over the different strains evaluated • Notably, inhibiting the growth of C. albicans required higher concentrations of Ag Nps loaded in scaffolds than the bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce pollution caused by traditional plastic packaging and preparation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), this work aims to develop biological macromolecular packaging films with green synthesized AgNPs. In this study, a novel P. cocos polysaccharide (PCP) with a unique monosaccharide composition was extracted from Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf. Then, this polysaccharide containing 24.68 % rhamnose was used as a stabilizer for the green synthesis of PCP-AgNPs for the first time. PCP-AgNPs exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa , E. coli , and S. aureus , with the highest antibacterial activity against E. coli (inhibition zone diameter = 11.14 ± 0.79 mm). Subsequently, PCP-AgNPs/chitosan (CS) film was successfully prepared by incorporating PCP-AgNPs into the CS film solution. Several experiments demonstrated that the addition of this nanomaterial promoted the formation of noncovalent interactions between CS and PCP-AgNPs, resulting in a more regular and denser film. Compared to the CS film and control group, the PCP-AgNPs/CS film significantly maintained the quality indexes of strawberries. Therefore, this composite film successfully extended the shelf life of strawberries. Regarding safety, these packaging films were not cytotoxic toward RAW264.7 cells. In conclusion, the environmentally friendly PCP-AgNPs/CS film has the potential to replace some traditional food packaging materials. • The PCP-AgNPs were green synthesized by using the P. cocos polysaccharide (PCP) as green stabilizer for the first time. • PCP-AgNPs were added to CS for developing packaging film (PCP-AgNPs/CS) with good packaging properties. • PCP-AgNPs/CS film delayed the degradation of multiple sensory and physicochemical indexes of strawberry. • PCP-AgNPs/CS film show promising applications in food preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar desalination is an effective solution to address the global water scarcity issue. However, biofouling poses a significant challenge for solar evaporators due to the presence of bacteria in seawater. In this study, an anti-biofouling evaporator was constructed using the synergistic antibacterial effect of lignin and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The AgNPs were easily synthesized using lignin as reductant under mild reaction conditions. Subsequently, the Lignin-AgNPs solution was integrated into polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAm) without any purification steps, resulting in the formation of Lignin/AgNPs-PAAm (LAg-PAAm). Under the combined action of AgNPs and the hydroquinone groups present in oxidized lignin, LAg-PAAm achieved over 99 % disinfection efficiency within 1 h, effectively preventing biofilm formation in pore channels of solar evaporators. The anti-biofouling solar evaporator demonstrated an evaporation rate of 1.85 kg m−2 h−1 under 1 sun irradiation, and maintained stable performance for >30 days due to its high efficient bactericidal effect. Furthermore, it also exhibited exceptional salt-rejection capability attributed to its superior hydrophilicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioavailability of curcumin (CUR), a highly lipophilic and commonly used anticancer drug, is mainly affected by its poor solubility in aqueous environment and quick metabolism. These challenges can be met by employing delivery systems. Nanocomposite materials have been used as delivery systems to enhance the solubility and dissolution rate of the drug. This study aims to develop dextran- graft -poly(4-acryloylmorpholine) silver nanocomposite using a microwave-assisted method to evaluate its drug-release efficiency and antimicrobial activity. The materials were characterized by FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDS, XRD, HR-TEM, TGA, and BET techniques. Drug loading and release efficiency were evaluated using CUR as the model drug. The swelling and drug release studies were conducted in buffer solutions of pH 1.2 and 7.4. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were employed to evaluate the antibacterial activity. The cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT assay against the breast MCF-10. Higher swelling and drug release were observed at pH 1.2 than 7.4. Nanocomposite hydrogel exhibited antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial strains. Cytotoxicity study proved the safety of the developed matrix. The results suggest the developed nanocomposite hydrogel to be a promising polymer matrix for the sustained release of CUR for cancer treatment that requires infectious control. [Display omitted] • Dextran-based hydrogel and its silver nanocomposite were developed by microwave-assisted method. • Nanocomposite hydrogel demonstrated dual functionalities as a drug delivery and antibacterial agent. • CUR was released in a pH-dependent manner from the developed materials. • Integration of silver nanoparticles into gel structure enhanced drug release and imparts remarkable antibacterial properties. • Developed material is safe and exhibits good biocompatibility with normal human cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of new biocompatible and eco-friendly materials is essential for the future of dental practice, especially for the management of dental caries. In this study, a novel and simple method was applied for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from the aqueous extract of Camellia sinensis (WT) and functionalized with chitosan (CHS) and NaF. The effects of WT_AgNPs application on demineralized dentin were evaluated for potential dental applications. The WT_AgNPs showed molecular groups related to organic compounds, potentially acting as reducing and capping agents. All AgNPs presented spherical shapes with crystal sizes of approximately 20 nm. Forty human molars were assigned to control: sound (SD) and demineralised dentine (DD), and experimental groups: WT_AgNPs, WT_AgNPs_NaF, and WT_AgNPs_CHS. Then, the NPs were applied to DD to evaluate the chemical, crystallographic, and microstructural characteristics of treated-dentine. In addition, a three-point bending test was employed to assess mechanical response. The application of WT_AgNPs indicated a higher mineralisation degree and crystallites sizes of hydroxyapatite than the DD group. SEM images showed that WT_AgNPs presented different degrees of aggregation and distribution patterns. The dentine flexural strength was significantly increased in all WT_AgNPs. The application of WT_AgNPs demonstrated remineralising and strengthening potential on demineralised dentine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water contamination caused by toxic compounds has emerged as one of the most severe challenges worldwide. Biomass-based nanocomposites offer a sustainable and renewable alternative to conventional materials. In this study, a nanocomposite of mint and cellulose acetate (Mint-CA) was prepared and employed as a supportive material for Cu nanoparticles (CuNPs) and Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs). The selectivity of CuNPs@mint-CA and AgNPs@mint-CA was assessed by comparing their performance in the reduction reaction of various dyes solutions. AgNPs@mint-CA exhibited superior catalytic performance, with a removal of 95.2 % for methyl orange (MO) compared to 68 % with CuNPs@mint-CA. The absorption spectra of MO exhibited a distinct peak at 464 nm. The reduction reaction of MO by AgNPs@mint-CA followed pseudo-first-order-kinetic with a rate constant of k = 0.0063 min−1 (R2 = 0.928). The highest removal of MO was achieved under the following conditions: a catalyst weight of 40 mg, an initial MO concentration of 0.07 mM, the addition of 0.5 mL of 0.1 M NaBH 4 , and a temperature of 25 °C. Furthermore, the AgNPs@mint-CA catalyst exhibited exceptional reducibility even after five use cycles, highlighting its potential for efficiently removing MO. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing novel antimicrobial wound dressings that have the potential to address the challenges associated with chronic wounds is highly imperative in providing effective infection control and wound healing support. Biocompatible electrospun nanofibers with their high porosity and surface area enabling efficient drug loading and delivery have been investigated in this regard as viable candidates for chronic wound care. Here, we design Casein/Polyvinyl alcohol (CAN/PVA) nanofibers reinforced with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) by the electrospinning technique to develop diabetic wound healing scaffolds. The prepared samples were characterized using spectroscopic and electron microscopic techniques. The biocompatibility of the polymer samples were assessed using 3 T3 fibroblast cell lines and the maximum cell viability was found to 95 % at a concentration of 50 μg/mL for the prepared nanofibers. Scratch assay tests were also performed to analyze the wound healing activity of the nanofibers wherein they demonstrated increased migration and proliferation of fibroblast 3 T3 cells. Moreover, these nanofibers also exhibit antibacterial efficiency against Gram-negative bacteria , Escherichia coli (E.coli). Therefore, the antimicrobial nature of the electrospun nanofibers coupled with their moisture absorption properties and wound healing ability render them as effective materials for wound dressing applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an environmentally friendly, effective, easily synthesizable and recoverable nano-sized catalyst system (Ag@NaAlg-keratin) was designed by decorating Ag nanoparticles on microbeads containing sodium alginate (NaAlg) and keratin obtained from goose feathers. The structure, morphology and crystallinity of the Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst were evaluated by XRD, FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDS/EDS mapping and TEM analyses. Catalytic ability of designed Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst was then investigated against 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and methyl orange (MO) reductions. Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst effectively reduced 4-NP in 6 min and MO in 5 min, with rate constants of 0.17 min−1 and 0.16 min−1, respectively. Additionally, activation energies (Ea) were found as 39.8 kJ/mol for 4-NP and 37.9 kJ/mol for MO. Performed recyclability tests showed that the Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst was easily recovered due to its microbead form and successfully reused five times, maintaining both its activity and structure. Furthermore, antioxidant activity of Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst was the highest (73.16 %). [Display omitted] • Silver nanoparticles adorned on NaAlg-keratin micro beads as heterogenous catalyst • Catalytic and antioxidant potential of Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst was investigated. • Ag@NaAlg-keratin nanocatalyst efficiently reduced 4-NP and MO. • Ag@NaAlg-keratin was easily recoverable and applicable for 5 successive runs. • Ag@NaAlg-keratin demonstrated 73.16 % DPPH activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work developed Acer tegmentosum extract-mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) loaded chitosan (CS)/alginic acid (AL) scaffolds (CS/AL-AgNPs) to enhance the healing of E. coli -infected wounds. The SEM-EDS and XRD results revealed the successful formation of the CS/AL-AgNPs. FTIR analysis evidenced that the anionic group of AL (-COO-) and cationic amine groups of CS (-NH 3 +) were ionically crosslinked to form scaffold (CS/AL). The CS/AL-AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive (G+) and Gram-negative (G-) bacterial pathogens, while being non-toxic to red blood cells (RBCs), the hen's egg chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM), and a non-cancerous cell line (NIH3T3). Treatment with CS/AL-AgNPs significantly accelerated the healing of E. coli -infected wounds by regulating the collagen deposition and blood parameters as evidenced by in vivo experiments. Overall, these findings suggest that CS/AL-AgNPs are promising for the treatment of infected wounds. This figure created with BioRender.com. [Display omitted] • Development of silver nanoparticles loaded chitosan/alginic acid scaffold (CS/AL-Ag NPs) • CS/AL-Ag NPs nontoxic to RBC and NIH3T3 cell line and promote cell migration • The CS/AL-Ag NPs treatment improved wound healing by inhibiting bacterial colonization. • CS/AL-Ag NPs rapidly healed wounds through collagen deposition and cell proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unpredictable release behavior of metal nanoparticles/metal ions from metal nanoparticle-loaded hydrogels, without a suitable in situ detection method, is resulting in serious cytotoxicity. To optimize the preparation and design of antibacterial hydrogels for in situ detection of metal nanoparticles, an in-situ detection platform based on the fluorescence signal change caused by the potential surface energy transfer of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and carbon dots (CD) through silver mirror reaction and Schiff base reaction was established. The antimicrobial test results show that the composite antimicrobial hydrogel, with lower dosages of AgNPs and CD, exhibited a higher inhibition rate of 99.1 % against E. coli and 99.8 % against S. aureus compared to the single antimicrobial component. This suggests a potential synergistic antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, the fluorescence detection platform was established with a difference of <3 μg between detected values and actual values over a period of 72 h. This demonstrates the excellent in situ detection capability of the hydrogel in antimicrobial-related applications. [Display omitted] • The energy transfer within the hydrogels enables in-situ monitoring of the dynamic release behavior of silver nanoparticles. • Schiff base bond, hydrogen bonds, and electrostatic interactions collectively enhance the network structure of hydrogels. • Silver nanoparticles were prepared through the silver mirror reaction without the use of chemical reductants or surfactants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the commercially available three different fabrics cotton, nylon and cotton/nylon were modified by chitosan and silver nanoparticles using a crosslinker triethyl orthoformate (TEOF). Resulted cotton‑silver (Ag-Cs-Cot), nylon‑silver (Ag-Cs-Nyl) and cotton-nylon silver (Ag-Cs-Cot-Nyl) fabrics showed significant anti-bacterial activity even after 50 washing cycles. Silver nanoparticles were prepared by reducing silver nitrate through sodium borohydride at 0 °C. In FTIR spectra the peak at near 1650 cm−1 confirmed that TEOF mediated attachment of chitosan with fabrics (due to C=N) and the stretching of secondary amine near the 3375 cm-1 indicated the silver attachment to the amine group of the chitosan. In Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images smooth surfaces of fabrics without any damage by modification process were observed. The antibacterial activity was Analyzed by agar diffusion and broth dilution assays against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacterial strains and results showed 90% bacterial inhibition against E. coli and 89% bacterial inhibition against S. aureus. For testing the antibacterial durability, the modified fabrics were washed with non-ionic detergent (10g/l) for 15 minutes under aggressive stirring (100 rpm) at room temperature. The modified fabrics retained antibacterial activity over the 50 washing cycles. Finally, the commercial potential of cotton-silver fabric was evaluated by stitching it with the socks of football players and interestingly results showed that the modified fabric on the socks showed more than 90% bacterial inhibition as compared to the plain fabric after 70 minutes of playing activity. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable biomass-based materials have a huge potential to replace petroleum-based products in food packaging. Herein, pectin/gelatin films loaded with curcumin and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are prepared by solution-pouring technology to serve as antimicrobial multifunctional food packaging films. AgNPs and curcumin are found to equally distribute in the films. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) reveal the hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction among curcumin, AgNPs, pectin and gelatin. The composite films show good antioxidant activity, mechanical performance, hydrophobicity and antibacterial ability. The films of P-G C A 0.5 showed 99.57 ± 0.16 % and 100 % inhibition against E. coli and S. aureus , respectively. The films also demonstrate excellent water vapor barrier qualities. In addition, the composite films possess pH-responsive color change behaviors from yellow (pH 3–8) to light red (pH 8–9) to dark red (pH 11–12), which is suitable for monitoring the freshness of shrimp packaging based on pH changes during deterioration process. As sustainable biomass-based materials, the multifunctional composite films are promising in intelligent food packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to develop a multifunctional wound dressing with enhanced antibacterial properties and wound healing promotion. The synthesis process involved preparing oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) following a modified procedure, synthesizing chitosan/silver nanoparticles (CS/Ag NPs) via an in-situ reduction method, and subsequently preparing ORC/CS/Lys@Ag NPs hydrogels. Characterization techniques including FTIR, XRD, SEM, and EDS were employed to analyze functional groups, lattice structure, morphology, and elemental composition. Gelation time, swelling behavior, water retention, mechanical properties, viscosity, self-healing capacity, rheological behavior, oxygen permeability, in vitro degradation, release of Ag+, and antibacterial properties were evaluated using various experimental methods. Results indicated that the novel wound dressing has the capability to evenly distribute Ag NPs to effectively counteract bacteria. It can maintain moist conditions for 86 h, resist a sturdy mechanical pressure of 11.3 KPa, and degrade by 11.045 % ± 0.429 within 8 h. Combining its efficient gas exchange abilities, self-repairing function, and biocompatibility, almost full recovery was observed in injured mouse skin within 13 days, highlighting its promising clinical utility. [Display omitted] • Novel ORC/CS/Lys@Ag NPs hydrogel dressing successfully developed. • In situ synthesis yields well-distributed nanosilver, ensuring antibacterial efficacy. • Introduction of lysine significantly promotes comprehensive wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their organized structures, remarkable stiffness, and nice biocompatibility and biodegradability, amyloid fibrils serve as building blocks for versatile sustainable materials. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are commonly used as the nano-catalysts for various electrochemical reactions. Given their large specific surface area and high surface energy, AgNPs exhibit high aggregation propensity, which hampers their electrocatalytic performance. Food protein wastes have been identified to be associated with climate change and environmental impacts, and a surplus of whey proteins in dairy industries causes high biological and chemical demands, and greenhouse gas emissions. This study is aimed at constructing sustainable electrode surface modifiers using AgNP-deposited whey protein amyloid fibrils (AgNP/WPI-AFs). AgNP/WPI-AFs were synthesized and characterized via spectroscopic techniques, electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Next, the electrocatalytic performance of AgNP/WPI-AF modified electrode was assessed via para-nitrophenol (p-NP) reduction combined with various electrochemical analyses. Moreover, the reaction mechanism of p-NP electrocatalysis on the surface of AgNP/WPI-AF modified electrode was investigated. The detection range, limit of detection, sensitivity, and selectivity of the AgNP/WPI-AF modified electrode were evaluated accordingly. This work not only demonstrates an alternative for whey valorization but also highlights the feasibility of using amyloid-based hybrid materials as the electrode surface modifier for electrochemical sensing purposes. [Display omitted] • Silver nanoparticles-deposited whey protein fibrils (AgNP/WPI-AFs) were prepared. • Electrode modified by AgNP/WPI-AFs was used for the detection of p-nitrophenol. • NP/AF-modified electrode has better electrocatalytic activity than bare electrode. • Detection limit and sensitivity of NP/AF-modified electrode were determined. • NP/AF-modified electrode shows nice selectivity, reproducibility, and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a hematologic cancer that involves the production of abnormal lymphoid precursor cells, primarily affects children aged 2 to 10 years. The bacterial enzyme L-asparaginase produced from Escherichia coli is utilised as first-line therapy, despite the fact that 30 % of patients have a treatment-limiting hypersensitivity reaction. The current study elucidates the biosynthesis of extremely stable, water-dispersible, anisotropic silver nanoparticles (ANI Ag NPs) at room temperature and investigation of its anti-tumor potency in comparison to L-asparaginase. The optical, morphological, compositional, and structural properties of synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated using UV–Vis-NIR spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and X-ray Diffractometer. The UV–Vis-NIR spectra revealed the typical Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) at 423 nm along with additional NIR absorption at 962 nm and 1153 nm, while TEM images show different shapes and sizes of Ag nanoparticles ranging from 6.81 nm to 46 nm, together confirming their anisotropic nature. Further, the MTT assay demonstrated promising anticancer effects of ANI Ag NPs with an IC 50 value of ∼7 μg/mL against HuT-78 cells. These sustainable anisotropic silver nanoparticles exhibited approximately four times better cytotoxic ability (at and above 10 μg/mL concentrations) than L-asparaginase against HuT-78 cells (a human T lymphoma cell line). Apoptosis analysis by Wright-Geimsa, Annexin- V , and DAPI staining indicated the role of apoptosis in ANI Ag NPs-mediated cell death. The measurement of NO, and Bcl2 and cleaved caspase-3 levels by colorimetric method and immunoblotting, respectively suggested their involvement in ANI Ag NPs-elicited apoptosis. The findings indicate that the biogenic approach proposed herein holds tremendous promise for the rapid and straightforward design of novel multifunctional nanoparticles for the treatment of T cell malignancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strawberry is a nutritious food that is susceptible to mechanical injury and microbiological infection. Traditional coatings for strawberry packaging provide resistance against microbial infection but not against mechanical damage. In this study, a soft and elastic cellulose sponge modified with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs@CS-1:1) was prepared as strawberry packaging material, and it provided effective protection against mechanical damage. In addition, after 1000 cyclic compression, AgNPs@CS-1:1 presented only 16.80% unrecoverable deformation and still had elasticity, suggesting its fatigue resistance and durable protection for strawberry against damage caused by repeated vibrations during transportation. In addition, AgNPs@CS-1:1 had good antibacterial (E. coli and S. aureus) and antifungal (Rhizopus stolonifer) abilities. The storage time of strawberries packaged by AgNPs@CS-1:1 was extended to 12 days without microbial invasion. Thus, AgNPs@CS-1:1 provided dual protection at the physical and microbial levels. This study proposes a new method for the preservation of strawberries based on the utilization of cellulose. • A soft and elastic cellulose sponge modified with Ag nanoparticles was fabricated. • The sponge can effectively protect strawberry from mechanical damage when vibration. • The sponge can greatly protect strawberry from microbial invasion. • The sponge can keep the internal composition of the strawberry stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe bacterial infection and chronic wound healing caused by the abuse of antibiotics threaten the public health, which calls the need for the development of novel antibacterial agents and alternative therapeutic strategies. Herein, magnetic carboxymethyl cellulose-ε-polylysine hybrids (FCE) were synthesized via a facile one-pot coprecipitation method and further used as matrix to anchor silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The as-resulted Ag/FCE hybrids were employed to inactivate pathogenic bacteria and accelerate bacteria-infected wound healing with the assistance of H 2 O 2. In vitro investigation revealed the combination of hydroxyl radical (·OH) originated from low concentration of H 2 O 2 catalyzed by Ag/FCE and the antimicrobial activity of Ag NPs endowed effective antibacterial performance to the hybrids against both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Investigation on antibacterial mechanism indicated antibacterial activity of the synergetic strategy was achieved by destroying bacterial cell integrity, arresting metabolic, producing intracellular ROS, and oxidizing GSH. Additionally, in vivo assay exhibited Ag/FCE possessed satisfactory biocompatibility and effectively accelerated S. aureus -infected wound healing with the presence of low concentration of H 2 O 2. Altogether, the presented results supported the great potential application of the synergistic antibacterial strategy for the therapy of bacterial-infected wound healing. [Display omitted] • FCE hybrids with peroxidase-like activity were synthesized via a one-pot method. • FCE hybrids anchoring Ag NPs were employed for synergistic antibacterial strategy. • Ag/FCE + H 2 O 2 possessed excellent antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria. • The synergistic antibacterial strategy showed effective wound healing effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a newly developed approach for durable antibacterial cotton fabrics coated carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCs) via ionic crosslinking driven by cationization of cotton surface (CC) with 3-chloro-2-hydroxyl propyl-trimethyl ammonium chloride (CHTAC) was achieved. In this regard, the novelty was extended to impart a highly antibacterial activity through harnessing of the as-functionalized CMCs/CC for in situ preparation of AgNPs, without using of hazardous reductants. The antibacterial activity of the in situ prepared AgNPs onto CMCs/CC as well as the in vivo study on the rat lab were investigated to evaluate their healing efficiency, pathological tissues and biomarkers. Results affirmed that the treatment of CC with 10% of CMCs was adequate to achieve the highest swelling ratio which, in turns, is able to in situ deposition of AgNPs with a size range of 2-10 nm onto CC/CMCs rendering them a highly durable antibacterial activity against both Gram +Ve and Gram -Ve bacteria, which had a bacterial reduction of 98% to 86% after 20 washing cycles. Furthermore, the in vivo study revealed effectively the advantageous uses of the cotton functionalized with AgNPs compared to CC/CMCs in wound healing via alleviating the oxidative stress and promoting hyaluronic acid in wounded skin as well as increasing RUNX2 in healed skin tissues. • Preparation of CMCs for functionalization of cationized cotton fabrics. • In situ preparation of AgNPs onto surface of the functionalized CC/CMCs. • Cotton / AgNPs exhibited a durable antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. Coli. • In vivo study affirmed the excellent wound healing of the functionalized dressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the synthesis of bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogel sheets and their utilization as a support for silver‑nickel oxide nanocomposites (Ag/NiO). A two-step facile hydrothermal method was employed for the preparation of Ag/NiO, followed by impregnation into BC hydrogel sheets. A 20% Ag/NiO composition was revealed by dry weight analysis. The stability of nanocomposites-Hydrogel was confirmed by Ag+ and Ni2+ ion release study. The catalytic activity of the BC-Ag/NiO was evaluated against chemical reduction of congo red, methyl orange and methylene blue. The reduction reaction followed pseudo first order kinetics and k app values of 0.1147 min−1, 0.1323 min−1 and 0.12989 min−1 were obtained for CR, MO, and MB dyes, respectively. The BC-Ag/NiO catalyst could be easily recovered and re-used in another reaction without centrifugation. The synthesized nanocomposites hydrogel was also tested for its antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli (E.coli) and Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposed a one-pot green route for the development of a biocompatible Tara gum-Riceberry phenolics‑silver nanosphere hybrid nanocomposite (TG/RiPE-SNG) with manifold biological potentialities. The reaction system comprised of AgNO 3 as nanosilver precursor, Riceberry phenolic extract as the green in situ reductant, and Tara gum as stabilizing and anchoring agent. TG/RiPE-SNG was extensively characterized using UV–vis spectroscopy, FTIR, RAMAN, TEM, FESEM, EDX, DLS/zeta potential, XRD, and TGA analyses. Small, stable, spherical, well-dispersed SNP with an average particle size of 13.01 nm and λ max of 421 nm were synthesized in situ, and uniformly distributed within the gel-like TG/RiPE composite. The prepared nanocomposite demonstrated superior antibacterial properties (MIC of 12.5 μg/mL) against S. aureus and S. epidermidis compared to the gum or extract. Additionally, TG/RiPE-SNG exhibited strong light barrier, tyrosinase inhibitory and antioxidant functionalities. TG/RiPE-SNG also exhibited high stability at different pH and was more thermally stable relative to the plain TG/RiPE composite. Furthermore, TG/RiPE-SNG showed good biocompatibility towards mouse L929 fibroblasts and rat erythrocytes. The obtained findings revealed a simple, benign, and inexpensive approach using only natural ingredients for the preparation of gum-based biopolymer-nanosilver hybrid nanocomposite and underscored the strong attributes of TG/RiPE-SNP as a nanomaterial with desirable biomedical potentials. • Tara gum/Riceberry phenolics‑silver nanosphere hybrid nanocomposite was successfully developed via a green route. • The silver nanosphere were prepared in situ with RiPE/TG functioning as reductant/ capping agents, respectively. • The nanogel was biocompatible with mouse L929 fibroblasts and rat erythrocytes. • The nanogel demonstrated markedly improved light barrier, anti-tyrosinase and antioxidant properties. • The nanogel exhibited impressive antimicrobial effect against S. aureus and S. epidermidis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]