Selective Antimicrobial Chitosan Films Incorporating Green-Synthesized Silver and Copper Oxide Nanoparticles for Acne...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Antimicrobial Research

Background:

• Chitosan films are explored for topical applications.
• Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) offers novel antimicrobial agents.
• Comparing the selective antimicrobial action of AgNPs and CuONPs is crucial for targeted therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and compare chitosan-based films containing green-synthesized AgNPs and CuONPs.
• To evaluate the selective antimicrobial efficacy of these films against specific bacteria, including Cutibacterium acnes.
• To assess the cytocompatibility of the developed films for topical applications.

Main Methods:

• Green synthesis of AgNPs and CuONPs using Camellia sinensis extract.
• Characterization of synthesized nanoparticles.
• Antimicrobial activity assessment using Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) assays.
• Incorporation of nanoparticles into chitosan films (AgNPs@CHI, CuONPs@CHI).
• Evaluation of selective antimicrobial activity and fibroblast cytocompatibility (ISO 10993-5).

Main Results:

• AgNPs demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 15 µg/mL) but limited efficacy against C. acnes (MIC = 125 µg/mL).
• CuONPs exhibited selective efficacy against C. acnes (MIC = 62 µg/mL; MBC = 125 µg/mL).
• CuONPs@CHI films showed selective anti-C. acnes activity (45 mm halo), while AgNPs@CHI films were effective against E. coli (35 mm) and S. aureus (30 mm).
• All films maintained fibroblast viability above the 70% threshold, indicating good cytocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• CuONPs@CHI films are promising for targeted anti-acne therapies due to their selective action against C. acnes.
• AgNPs@CHI films function as effective broad-spectrum antimicrobial barriers.
• The study highlights the potential of nanoparticle-loaded chitosan films for diverse topical antimicrobial applications.