Silver nanoparticles: a possibility for malarial and filarial vector control technology

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Environmental Science
• Entomology

Background:

• Azadirachta indica (Neem) possesses bioactive compounds with significant potential.
• Mosquito-borne diseases necessitate novel and sustainable control strategies.
• Green synthesis of nanoparticles offers an eco-friendly alternative for pest management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Azadirachta indica leaf and bark extracts.
• To evaluate the efficacy of synthesized AgNPs as larvicides, pupicides, and adulticides against Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus.
• To explore the potential of neem-derived AgNPs as an environmentally friendly vector control agent.

Main Methods:

• Green synthesis of AgNPs using aqueous extracts of Neem leaves and bark.
• Characterization of AgNPs using UV-visible spectrophotometry and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).
• Efficacy testing against mosquito larvae, pupae, and adults using probit analysis at various concentrations and exposure times.

Main Results:

• Synthesized AgNPs were spherical with sizes of 10.47 nm (leaf) and 19.22 nm (bark).
• Culex quinquefasciatus (filariasis vector) showed higher susceptibility to AgNPs than Anopheles stephensi (malaria vector).
• 100% mortality in C. quinquefasciatus larvae was observed within 30 minutes; significant larvicidal, pupicidal, and adulticidal activity was recorded with low LC50 values.

Conclusions:

• Neem-derived AgNPs are effective and environmentally friendly agents for controlling malaria and filariasis vectors.
• Green synthesis of AgNPs presents a sustainable nanotechnology approach for public health.
• The study highlights the potential of integrating natural products with nanotechnology for vector management.