Bioactivity and antibacterial effect of star anise biosynthesized silver nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans: an in vitro study.

Background: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are receiving a lot of attention as a prospective antibacterial agent for use in caries prevention. The objective of this study was to investigate the bioactivity and antibacterial effect of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized using Star Anise against Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans). Methods: The bioactive components of the Star Anise were assessed by employing the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry technique. The antibacterial activities of Star Anise Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles against S.mutans bacteria were evaluated using Bauer and Kirby's disc diffusion mechanism and the minimum inhibitory concentration. Results: Silver nanoparticles biosynthesized using Star Anise revealed high antioxidant activity. AgNPs inhibited S. mutans with a 16 mm inhibition zone diameter and demonstrated an 80 µg/ml minimum inhibitory concentration. Conclusions: Biologically synthesized AgNPs made from aqueous extract of Star anise appear to be a potential and effective bactericidal agent against S.mutans that can be used to prevent dental caries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]