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Sustainable microalgae-based Docosahexaenoic Acid-Silver nanoparticles for biomedical applications
Ashfaq Ahmad1, Kaumeel Chokshi2,3, Dalaver Anjum4
1Department of Biological Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
|June 15, 2026
Summary
Researchers stabilized docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, by incorporating it into silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). This enhances DHA stability for improved biomedical applications and creates novel DHA-AgNPs.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Marine Biotechnology
Background:
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, offers health benefits but suffers from poor solubility and oxidation instability.
- These limitations hinder its use in biomedical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance the stability and applicability of DHA for biomedical uses.
- To develop a sustainable method for producing DHA-loaded silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).
Main Methods:
- DHA was extracted and purified from the marine microalga *Aurantiochytrium limacinum*.
- Purified DHA was incorporated into silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).
- Characterization involved SEM, TEM, XRD, and FTIR spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Nanosized, spherical AgNPs with surface-associated DHA were successfully formed.
- DHA loading resulted in morphological changes and reduced crystallinity of AgNPs.
- FTIR confirmed functional group interactions between DHA and AgNPs.
Conclusions:
- A sustainable method for producing microalgae-derived DHA-loaded AgNPs with enhanced stability was developed.
- The resulting DHA-AgNPs possess multifunctional properties, including antimicrobial activity.
- This work supports the development of green nanomedicines with improved DHA delivery.
