Enhanced silver nanoparticle synthesis by optimization of nitrate reductase activity

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Nanostructured materials offer unique properties for biological and pharmaceutical applications.
• Silver nanoparticles are of significant interest due to their diverse applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize nitrate reductase production for enhanced silver nanoparticle synthesis.
• To investigate the impact of medium composition on enzyme activity and nanoparticle generation.

Main Methods:

• Response surface methodology and central composite rotary design (CCRD) were used to optimize the fermentation medium.
• Bacillus licheniformis was cultured to produce nitrate reductase.
• Spectrophotometry and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were employed for characterization.

Main Results:

• Optimized medium composition (1.5% Glucose, 1% Peptone, 0.35% Yeast extract, 0.35% KNO(3)) yielded maximum nitrate reductase activity (452.206 U/ml).
• Silver nanoparticles synthesized using optimized enzyme activity showed a 2-fold increase in absorbance compared to unoptimized conditions.
• TEM analysis confirmed the synthesized silver nanoparticles ranged from 10 to 80 nm.

Conclusions:

• Enzyme optimization significantly enhances silver nanoparticle synthesis.
• The developed method provides a scalable approach for producing silver nanoparticles with potential in medicinal applications.