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Green-Synthesized MgO Nanoparticles: Structural Insights and Antimicrobial Applications
Denisa-Maria Radulescu1,2, Ionela Andreea Neacsu1,2, Bodgan Stefan Vasile2,3,4
1Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania.
Green synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) using orange peel extract yields stable, biocompatible, and antimicrobial nanomaterials. This reproducible method clarifies phytochemical roles in nanoparticle formation for potential biomedical uses.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Green Chemistry
Background:
- Magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) offer stability, biocompatibility, and antibacterial properties.
- Existing green synthesis methods for MgO NPs lack mechanistic understanding and reproducibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a standardized, eco-friendly green synthesis process for MgO NPs using orange peel extract.
- To elucidate the role of phytochemicals in MgO NP formation and stabilization.
- To evaluate the cytocompatibility and antimicrobial efficacy of the synthesized MgO NPs.
Main Methods:
- Green synthesis of MgO NPs utilizing orange peel extract as a stabilizing and reducing agent.
- Characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), TGA-FTIR, and GC-MS analysis.
- Evaluation of cytocompatibility with fibroblast and osteoblast cell lines and antimicrobial/antibiofilm assays against various pathogens.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized cubic-phase MgO NPs (~9 nm) with irregular shapes (10-40 nm) and a positive surface charge (+11.74 mV).
- GC-MS analysis identified terpenoids, polymethoxyflavones, fatty acids, and sugars contributing to nucleation, growth regulation, and stabilization.
- Synthesized MgO NPs demonstrated excellent cytocompatibility (>80% viability) and moderate antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms.
Conclusions:
- The study presents a reproducible green synthesis pathway for MgO NPs using orange peel extract.
- Phytochemicals play a crucial role in the formation and stabilization of MgO NPs.
- The synthesized MgO NPs exhibit promising biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties for potential biomedical applications.
