Optimization, Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Copper Nanoparticles Biosynthesized Using Pantoea...

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Microbiology
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Conventional nanoparticle synthesis methods pose environmental risks.
• Microbial biosynthesis offers a sustainable and eco-friendly approach.
• Pantoea agglomerans can be utilized for nanoparticle production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize parameters for the biosynthesis of copper/copper oxide nanoparticles (Cu/CuONPs) by Pantoea agglomerans CPHN2.
• To compare the characteristics and antimicrobial efficacy of biosynthesized Cu/CuONPs with chemically synthesized ones.

Main Methods:

• One-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach for parameter optimization.
• Characterization using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.
• Antimicrobial assays against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis.

Main Results:

• Optimal biosynthesis achieved at 5 mM CuSO4, 32 h incubation, 6 h reaction time, pH 7, and 23°C.
• Biosynthesized Cu/CuONPs exhibited hexagonal shapes (5-35 nm) and distinct FTIR peaks.
• Biosynthesized Cu/CuONPs showed significantly higher antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and B. subtilis compared to chemosynthesized NPs.

Conclusions:

• Optimized microbial synthesis of Cu/CuONPs is an effective and green method.
• Biosynthesized Cu/CuONPs present a promising alternative for managing Gram-positive bacterial infections.
• This study highlights the potential of Pantoea agglomerans in sustainable nanoparticle production.