Biofabrication of iron and silver nanoparticles using Desmodium triflorum and their antimicrobial activity in vitro

Abstract

Introduction

Nanotechnology stands as one of the most effectual and influential domains in contemporary materials science. Environmentally friendly methods have emerged as a noteworthy advancement compared to conventional techniques, providing a more dependable and economical means of synthesizing metal nanoparticles.

Methods

In this study, leaves extract of Desmodium triflorum was utilized as the medium for the synthesis of iron and silver nanoparticles. A comprehensive suite of analyses was performed, including phytochemical screening, thin-layer chromatography, antioxidant activity assessment, and GC-MS analysis. The nanoparticles were synthesized employing established methodologies such as UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Subsequently, the antimicrobial efficacy of the synthesized nanoparticles was assessed.

Results

The GC-MS analysis of the leaves extract revealed the antioxidant potential of phytoconstituents responsible for the observed antimicrobial activity. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, which showed notable peaks at 358 nm for iron nanoparticles and 446 nm for silver nanoparticles. The biological moieties involved in the synthesis were confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy. The crystallinity of the materials was verified by X-ray Diffraction analysis, and the morphology of the nanomaterials was examined through Scanning Electron Microscopy. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy studies indicated that the iron nanoparticles consisted of 38.08 % iron and 61.92 % oxygen, while the silver nanoparticles contained 40.38 % silver and 59.62 % oxygen. Transmission Electron Microscopy micrographs revealed spherical shapes for the iron nanoparticles and a combination of spherical and round shapes for the silver nanoparticles, with an average size of approximately 50 nm. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of the synthesized iron and silver nanoparticles were evaluated, including the determination of the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration.

The antimicrobial activity results demonstrated potent bactericidal effects against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones of 5 ± 0.061 mm and 7 ± 0.019 mm for the iron and silver nanoparticles, respectively.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that iron and silver nanoparticles synthesized using Desmodium triflorum leaves extract hold promising potential for applications in the medical field.