A Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Efficacy of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles and Chemically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Against Enterococcus faecalis: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Effective root canal cleaning and sealing are essential for a successful endodontic procedure. For the purpose of disinfecting root canals, both herbal and non-herbal medications are recommended. This study aimed to analyze the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from Azadirachta indica /neem and chemically synthesized AgNPs from trisodium citrate (TSC) against oral pathogens to be further used as an irrigant in endodontic treatment. Materials and methods To synthesize  A. indica  AgNPs, powdered fresh A. indica  leaves were weighed, added to double distilled water, heated for 30 minutes, and then combined with silver nitrate solution. TSC was also used to create TSC AgNPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ocular observation, and the ultraviolet-visible light (UV-vis) spectrum were used to characterize the AgNPs. Studies were conducted on the extract's characteristics, including its cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity. Results The hue shift and peak on the UV-vis spectrophotometer were signs that AgNPs were forming. The XRD pattern showed that the sample included crystalline AgNPs, mostly spherical ones. By using SEM, the presence of AgNPs was also verified. AgNPs that were synthesized showed antimicrobial efficacy against Enterococcus   faecalis . Compared to chemically synthesized AgNPs, A. indica AgNPs showed lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values, a bigger zone of inhibition (ZOI), and less cytotoxic action. Conclusion This study demonstrates the minimal cytotoxicity and antibacterial activity of A. indica AgNPs against E. faecalis . This suggests that they might also be employed as root canal cleaners. Before experimenting with animals or cell lines in clinical trials for endodontic treatment, further research should be done.
Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
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