Antimicrobial effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of apple with and without zinc oxide nanoparticles on Streptococcus...

Area of Science:

• Oral Microbiology
• Nanotechnology in Dentistry
• Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

• Streptococcus Mutans is a primary causative agent of dental caries.
• Exploring natural antimicrobials is crucial for developing safer oral hygiene products.
• Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) possess known antimicrobial properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the antimicrobial efficacy of apple (Malus domestica Borkh. Vs.golab) hydro-alcoholic extract, with and without ZnO NPs, against Streptococcus Mutans.
• To compare the antimicrobial activity of the apple extract/ZnO NP combination with standard agents like Chlorhexidine and Persica.

Main Methods:

• Agar diffusion method was employed to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC).
• Tested concentrations of apple extract ranged from 25 to 200 mg/ml.
• ZnO NPs (0.4 nm diameter, 500 PPM) were used in combination with the apple extract.

Main Results:

• Apple hydro-alcoholic extract alone exhibited no antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus Mutans.
• The combination of apple extract with ZnO NPs at 25 mg/ml showed a mean inhibition zone of 13 mm.
• Positive controls demonstrated higher inhibition zones: Chlorhexidine (20 mm), Persica (16 mm), and ZnO NPs suspension (15 mm).

Conclusions:

• The combination of apple hydro-alcoholic extract and ZnO nanoparticles demonstrates a growth inhibitory effect on Streptococcus Mutans.
• This combination shows potential, but its efficacy is less remarkable compared to 0.2% Chlorhexidine.
• Further research may optimize this natural-based antimicrobial approach for oral health applications.