Synthesis and Characterization of Nanogold and Nanosilver as Leprosy Drug Candidates and Their Activity Tests in Leprosy Patients; Case Study

Abstract

One of nanogold uses is as a leprosy drug because it has an activity to increase cell proliferation and collagen biosynthesis. These two activities are necessary for the process of recovery and closure of wounds, including in leprosy. Nanosilver can act as anti-bacterial material, including against leprosy bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. This study used a combination of nanogold and nanosilver to treat leprosy. The theoretical application was very suitable and promising optimal results. The question was whether the combination application of nanogold and nanosilver could be used to treat leprosy. The method used in this study was a clinical test applied a combination of nanogold and nanosilver in 30 leprosy patients who still consumed leprosy drugs as the treatment group. Results were compared to 30 other patients who only consumed leprosy drugs as a control group. Data was collected by medical experts every 2 weeks for 3 months as various medical indicators; wound recovery (width and pain), body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and skin surface softness. Results showed that patients with treatment using nanogold and nanosilver was healed significantly faster compared to patients in the control group. Thus, a combination of nanogold and nanosilver could be used to accelerate the healing process of leprosy patients. Keywords—nanogold, nanosilver, leprosy drug, recovery, future medicine