Agar-well Diffusion Method Research Articles

Performance of Ag-doped CuO nanoparticles for photocatalytic activity applications: Synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial activity

The auto-combustion method synthesized CuO NPs and Ag/CuO NPs. The Ag/CuO NPs were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy instrumental analyses. The energy band gap, as determined by DRS properties, decreases from 3.82 to 3.50 eV for pure CuO and 10% Ag/CuO NPs, respectively. The photodegradation efficiency of Rhodamine-B & Carmine by 10% Ag/CuO NPs was nearly 98.9 and 97.8%, respectively. Antimicrobial trials revealed that the antimicrobial efficacy of Ag/CuO NPs at several dosages (20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 µg/mL) against human pathogens was initially assessed using the agar well-diffusion method, and then the broth dilution method. Noticeably, the minimum inhibitory concentration of Ag/CuO NPs for all pathogens ranged from 100 to 120 µg/ml, was determined. Generally, the observed minimum microbicide concentration has a wide range of Ag/CuO NPs doses, ranging from 150 to 300 µg/ml, which helps kill (99.99%) all tested pathogenic cells. The largest relative inhibitory activities (%) were recorded against Escherichia coli (81.45 ± 1.39) at 120 g/mL of Ag/CuO NPs and 100 μg/mL (80.43 ± 0.59), followed by 80 µg/mL (72.33 ± 0.82). Additionally, the lowest relative inhibitory activities (%) were monitored versus fungal cells and Gram-positive bacteria at 120 µg/mL of Ag/CuO NPs as 52.17 ± 1.49 and 53.42 ± 1.71; respectively.Graphic abstract

Evaluation of Phytochemical Composition and Antifungal Potential of Millingtonia hortensis Leaf Extract

Millingtonia hortensis, commonly known as the Indian cork tree, has been traditionally used in Southern Asian medicine for various therapeutic purposes. This study aimed to investigate the antifungal properties of M. hortensis leaf extract and evaluate its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic antifungal agents. Leaf samples were collected, authenticated, and subjected to aqueous and methanolic extraction. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, and proteins. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, while the antifungal potential was evaluated through the agar-well diffusion method against selected fungal strains. The aqueous extract yielded 4.4% w/w, while the methanolic extract yielded 2.9% w/w. Both extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, with the methanolic extract showing slightly higher potency. The antifungal assay revealed dose-dependent inhibition of fungal growth, with the highest concentration (300 μg/ml) exhibiting the maximum zone of inhibition. Ketoconazole served as a positive control, while 10% DMSO was used as a negative control. The results suggest that M. hortensis leaf extract possesses promising antifungal properties, likely attributed to its rich phytochemical composition. This study provides a foundation for further research into the development of novel, plant-based antifungal therapies and highlights the potential of M. hortensis as a source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical applications

HPLC analysis and antibacterial activity of methanolic extract of Centella asiatica (L.) urban

ObjectivesIncreasingly resistant antibiotics and new bacteria have fueled the demand for herbal remedies. Our current study aimed to find out whether the methanolic extract from Centella asiatica aerial parts contained asiatic acid and madecassoside, as well as their antibacterial properties. MethodsA high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique was used to measure asiatic acid and madecassoside. We assessed the antibacterial activity of both compounds and crude aerial methanolic extract using the agar-well diffusion method. ResultsAs identified through HPLC analysis, madecassoside was found to be 1.89 % and asiatic acid to be 0.35 %. C. asiatica had strong inhibitory activity against E. coli (MIC of 6.25 mg ml-1 and ZOI of 9 mm) and S. aureus (MIC of 3.12 mg ml-1 and ZOI of 8 mm). The ZOI for S. typhimurium, P. vulgaris, and B. subtilis was 7, 6, and 10 mm, respectively, and the MIC was 12.5 mg ml-1. Comparing asiatic acid to madecassoside, it has a potent antibacterial effect. ConclusionsThe methanolic crude extract and measured compounds of C. asiatica exhibit strong antibacterial activity, especially against S. typhimurium and E. coli. The asiatic acid and madecassoside identified by HPLC analysis could potentially be associated with this activity. These compounds exhibit antimicrobial activity can be found and employed as low-resistance, multi-target antibacterial drugs to treat a range of bacterial and fungal infections that have become resistant to existing antibiotics.

Eco-friendly drugs induce cellular changes in colistin-resistant bacteria

Abstract Background and objective As a last option, multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections (caused by Enterobacteriaceae) are treated with the antibiotic colistin, also known as polymyxin E. Colistin-resistant superbugs predispose people to untreatable infections, possibly leading to a high mortality rate. This project aims to study the effect of Acacia nilotica aqueous extract and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on colistin-resistant Klebsiella pneumonia (CRKP). Materials and methods ZnO-NPs were synthesized using the green method and characterized by UV-vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The zone of inhibition (ZI) was measured using the agar-well diffusion method, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration were estimated to determine the antimicrobial activity of the tested compound. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM) were used to investigate the alterations in bacterial cells that were treated with the tested drugs. Results The synthesized ZnO-NPs presented good chemical and physical properties, and the plant extract and ZnO-NPs displayed a large ZI. ZnO-NPs had the lowest MIC (0.2 mg·mL−1). SEM and TEM observations revealed various morphological modifications in CRKP cells, including cell shrinkage, cell damage, cytoplasm loss, cell wall thinning, and cell death. Conclusion A. nilotica aqueous extract and ZnO-NPs could be used as alternative natural products to produce antibacterial drugs and to prevent CRKP infection.

Synthesis and Characterization of Ester Derivatives of N-Phenylanthranilic Acid

N-Phenylanthranilic acid (fenamic acid) serves as the fundamental structure for synthesizing several non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibacterial drugs and also functions as a modulator of membrane transport. To reduce the dose-related side effects of existing drugs, research is focussing to improve fenamic acid derivative solubility and bioavailability. A series of ester derivatives of N-phenylanthranilic acid (MB-1 to MB-5) viz. 2-(phenyl amino)methyl benzoate, 2-(phenyl amino)ethyl benzoate, 2-(phenyl amino)isopropyl benzoate,2-(phenyl amino)butyl benzoate and 2-(phenyl amino)phenyl benzoate were synthesized. The chemical structures and functional groups of these derivatives were confirmed using elemental analysis and spectral data. Furthermore, the derived compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) strains using the agar-well diffusion method followed by molecular docking studies to predict binding interactions of the synthesized compounds with DNA gyrase.

Formulation and Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Emulgel Containing Eugenia caryophyllus Buds Extract

ABSTRACT: Background: Eugenia caryophyllus is a valuable aromatic spice used in household cooking. Traditional healers frequently employ the plant, which is said to have therapeutic qualities, in herbal concoctions to treat a variety of illnesses and conditions. Objective: Eugenia caryophyllus clove buds have antibacterial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The formulation of clove emulgel and its assessment using a variety of evaluation criteria were the main objectives of the current study. Clove emulgel was evaluated for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Materials and Procedures: We extracted and assessed the oils from Eugenia caryophyllus buds for phytochemical testing using solvents such as methanol, ethanol, petroleum ether, and N-hexane. We prepare emulgel and test it for spreadability, pH, and other organoleptic characteristics. We used egg albumin denaturation as a protein to measure the in vitro anti-inflammatory efficacy. We tested the antibacterial susceptibility using the agar-well diffusion method. Results: Alkaloids, saponins, tannins, steroids, carbohydrates, and glycosides were the phytochemical components found in clove bud extract. Physical factors such as color, consistency, and state—such as semi-solid, smooth, and brownish-gummy—are included in this category of evaluation parameters. The emulgel's pH was 5.35, its spreadability ranged from 1.6 to 2.5 cm, and no phase separation was noticed while the emulgel was stored. An in vitro anti-inflammatory test (spectroscopy method) and an antimicrobial test (zone of inhibition) were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of emulgel. Comparing clove oil emulgel to a typical medication, these evaluations found that it demonstrates strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial resistance. Conclusion: In conclusion, Clove Buds Emulgel has demonstrated antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains. Emulgel demonstrated the inhibitory response percentage in relation to the standard. This validates the roles that E. caryophyllus has been shown to play in protecting human health. This innovative emulgel mixture was applied to arthritis to lessen microbial infection and joint discomfort. In addition, more preclinical and clinical trials will be needed for this research in order to successfully commercialize the emulgel formulation for the treatment of inflammation and antimicrobial activity.

Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, DFT calculations, in silico-ADMET and molecular docking analysis of novel quinoline-substituted 5H-chromeno [2,3-b] pyridine derivatives as antibacterial agents.

A convenient, straightforward, and effective one-step reaction for the synthesis of a three-component compound of biologically relevant novel 2,4-diamino-5-(8-hydroxyquinolin-7-yl)-5H-chromeno[2,3-b] pyridine-3-carbonitrile derivatives was designed and synthesized. The synthesis was developed by the reaction between salicylaldehyde 1, 8-hydroxyquinoline 2, 2-aminopropene-1,1,3-tricarbonitrile 3, and the catalytic amount of triethylamine in ethanol at 78°C. This methodology has many beneficial features, including the use of inexpensive and non-hazardous starting materials, single-flask reactions, optimized reaction conditions, the termination of intermediate isolation, easy workup, reducing organic waste products, being chromatography-free, and decreasing the reaction time along with quantitative yields with high functional group tolerance. A proposed mechanism with supporting experimental data is presented, including 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 2D NMR (HMBC, COSY, HSQC), mass, and IR spectroscopy, which are used to characterize the complete derivatives. All synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro for their antibacterial activities against Bacillussubtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial strains via the agar-well diffusion method compared with the reference drug gentamicin. The data indicated that compounds 4A, 4F, 4G, 4J, and 4K consistently demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, a molecular docking investigation was carried out to gain insight into the binding mode of the most promising compounds via the crystal structure of the S. aureus DNA gyrase complex with ciprofloxacin (PDB ID: 2XCT). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to determine the various molecular properties of the synthesized novel 2,4-diamino-5-(8-hydroxyquinolin-7-yl)-5H-chromeno [2,3-b] pyridine-3-carbonitrile derivatives (4A-4M). On the basis of the reactive sites explored by the molecular electrostatic potential maps, the antibacterial activities of the compounds were screened.

Probiotic Properties of Lactobacilluscasei and L. plantarum Isolated From Overripe Avocado Pear

Probiotics have been researched for their benefit to gut health. Research for sources of probiotic bacteria has moved from milk to plants, as they have been found to be an inexhaustible source of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from Over ripe Avocado pear on selected bacterial species were assessed. Fifty Unripe Avocado pears were purchased from different markets and allowed to ferment. Enumeration of the microorganisms and pure culture isolation were done on MRS agar supplemented with1.0% CaCO3 at 37 oC for 48 hours; using the pour plate and streak plate methods respectively. The isolates were identified based on their microscopic, macroscopic, biochemical and molecular characteristics. They include Lactobacillus casei and L. plantarum. LAB isolates were tested for their phenol tolerance, bile salt tolerance, acid tolerance and antimicrobial activity. All the isolates were tolerant to simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Growth of the isolates was observed at different temperature between 15 oC to 60 oC. They exhibited tolerance to phenol ranging from 0.085±0.01% to 2.40±0.02%. Tolerance to bile salt ranged from 1.06x101± 0.96x101 to 3.04x103±1.15x102. The acid tolerance level of the LAB obtained ranged from 2.98x102±1.30x102 to 8.78x102±2.22x102. Agar-well diffusion method was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of the bacterial species. The test showed that the isolates were susceptible to the LAB isolates as zones of inhibition were observed. The inhibition zones diameter obtained ranged from 8.35±1.34mm to 13.77±2.21mm. Avocado pear, asides from their high nutritional content, also have the potential to serve as source of probiotic bacteria.

The Effects of Blue Vitriol and Brimstone on Etiological Agents of Bacterial Vulvovaginitis

Vulvovaginitis is an inflammation of the vulva and/or the vagina which may be symptomatic or asymptomatic. It is a common public health problem that can affect women and girls of all ages. The study aimed at evaluating the effects of blue vitriol and brimstone on etiological agents of bacterial vulvovaginitis. One hundred high vaginal swab specimens were aseptically and properly collected from suspected cases of vulvovaginitis. Plates of nutrient agar and blood agar were inoculated and incubated aerobically at 25 oC for 24 hours. The isolates were identified based on their morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular characteristics. The antimicrobial activity of blue vitriol and brimstone was determined using the agar-well diffusion method. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the test samples were determined using the broth dilution method. The isolates include Staphylococcus epidermidis, Eschericha coli, Lactobacillus spp. and Staphylococcus aureus. The inhibition zone diameter (IZD) of blue vitriol against the isolates ranges from 30.00±0.00mm to 31.50±2.12mm at concentrations of 50mg/ml to 200mg/ml. The IZD of brimstone against the isolates ranges from 29.00±1.41mm to 11.00±0.00mm at concentrations of 50mg to 200mg/ml. The positive control, ciprofloxacin gave IZD of 17.50±2.12mm to 21.50±2.12mm. The MIC of blue vitriol against all the isolates was 12.50mg/ml; while the MBC ranges between 25mg/ml to 50mg/ml. The MIC of brimstone was 25mg/ml to 200mg/ml; while the MBC was 50mg/ml to 200mg/ml. Ciprofloxacin gave MIC and MBC ranging from 25mg/ml to 100mg/ml against all the isolates. The study has shown that natural compounds such as blue vitriol and brimstone are good antimicrobials; and could serve as substitutes to conventional antimicrobial agents in the treatment of bacterial vulvovaginitis. Keywords: Vagina, Vulva, Vulvovaginitis, Blue vitriol, Brimstone, Antimicrobials.

Synthesis and characterization of manganese-L-arginine framework (MOF) for antibacterial and antioxidant studies

Due to their unique properties, metal-organic frameworks (MOF-2) have demonstrated significant potential for various biomedical applications. In this research, a manganese-Larginine framework (MOF-2) was synthesized and characterized using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The MOF-2's antibacterial activity against selected bacteria was evaluated via the agar-well diffusion method, and it was found to be more effective against E. coli than S. aureus. Furthermore, the MOF-2's potential as an antioxidant was investigated using the spectrophotometric method against ABTS and DPPH free radicals, with the MOF-2 displaying higher antioxidant activity against DPPH. The obtained results indicate that the synthesized MOF-2 possesses potent antibacterial and antioxidant activities, making it a promising candidate for various biomedical applications.

Evaluation of surface roughness, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial effects of silver nanoparticle coating on copper nickel titanium orthodontic arch wires - in vitro study.

Surface roughness of arch wires directly impacts their corrosion behavior, friction resistance, and plaque accumulation, which may hinder tooth movement and lead to dental caries. The study aims to synthesize vanillin-mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), characterize them, assess surface roughness and cytotoxicity of arch wires after silver nanoparticle coating, and test their antibacterial properties. Nine copper-nickel-titanium arch wires (CuNiTi) were cut into equal pieces. Three were sent for surface roughness assessment, three for cytotoxicity, and three for antibacterial testing. Dip coating of wires was done using the sol-gel thin film method. The surface roughness (Ra) before and after coating was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Cytotoxicity testing was done with a (3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay using gingival fibroblasts. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. Antibacterial activity against S. mutans was tested using the Agar-well diffusion method. The CuNiTi wires were coated successfully, and the coating appeared homogeneous. The mean Ra after coating (297.3+/- 30.4 nm) was significantly less than that before coating (339.7+/-49.2 nm). AgNPs showed minimal cytotoxicity against human gingival fibroblasts at different concentrations. Optical microscopy showed over 90% viability between 12.5 and 100 µg/ml. At 100 µg/ml, only 80% of cells remained viable. AgNP coating is biocompatible at concentrations up to 75 µg/ml. There was a significant intergroup difference in the zone of inhibition (antibacterial activity) noted with higher values in noncoated wires. (P value <0.007). AgNPs coated on CuNiTi arch wires showed reduced surface roughness and minimal cytotoxic effects on human gingival cells and good antibacterial activity against S. mutans compared to noncoated arch wires.

Comparative Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of Methanolic Extracts of Five Species of Astragalus (Fabaceae) Collected from Southeast of Iran, Kerman

Background: The antimicrobial properties of certain plants against five microorganisms have been investigated and compared. Objectives: In this research, we collected, dried, and identified five perennial (chamaephyte) species of Astragalus (Fabaceae) from a mountainous region (Takht-e-Sartashtak) with an average elevation of 3600 meters in southeastern Iran. The species include Astragalus cemerinus, Astragalus dactylocarpus, Astragalus glaucacanthus, Astragalus rhodosemius, and Astragalus siliquosus. Methods: The methanolic extracts of these plant species were tested to evaluate their antimicrobial activity against five pathogenic microorganisms, including one fungus (Candida albicans), two gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli), and two gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus). The tests were conducted using Mueller Hinton Agar culture media and the agar-well diffusion method. Results: The antimicrobial activity of these five species was compared. It was found that the plant species displayed different antimicrobial activities. Astragalus glaucacanthus was active against four of the five microorganisms and was the only plant active against Escherichia coli. Astragalus siliquosus showed no activity against any of the microorganisms. Conclusions: Most of the antimicrobial activity was observed with Astragalus rhodosemius against Staphylococcus aureus. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of the plant extracts were almost similar.

Exploring the anticandidal potential: Evaluating leaf extract efficacy and GC–MS metabolite profiling of Chenopodium album var. album L.

IntroductionChenopodium album var. album L., renowned as lamb's quarters, is a versatile medicinal plant, revealing its efficacy in treating various ailments. This study evaluated the in vitro antifungal activity of ethyl acetate extract of C. album var. album L. MethodsChenopodium album leaf extract demonstrated antifungal potential via the Agar well-diffusion and Broth-dilution method. Active fractions, obtained through column chromatography, were rigorously tested against Candida spp. The most potent fraction underwent detailed analysis with High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), for comprehensive characterization. ResultsThe ethyl acetate extract (EAE) exhibited significant antifungal activity, with Candida albicans being the most susceptible (inhibition zone of 14.67 ± 0.58a). Fractionation of the EAE yielded a highly active F2 fraction, which showed a remarkable zone of inhibition against C. albicans (17.50 ± 1.00a). Comprehensive examinations, including HPTLC, GC–MS, and FT-IR, identified 12 compounds in the F2 fraction, and the major compounds were Furo [2,3-c] pyridine, 2,3-dihydro-2,7-dimethyl, Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, and 2,3,4,4-Tretrapropyl-1-(trimethylsilyl)-1-(trimethylsilyloxy)-1,3-diaza-2,4-diborabutane. This study marks the first report of these 12 compounds identified from the F2 fraction of C. album. ConclusionThe present study highlights the antifungal activity of EAE and its fractions from C. album var. album that could be further explored for the selection of leads that may contribute to novel drug development.

Characterization and Biological Activity of Silver Nanoparticles from (Rhizophora Mucronata) Mangrove Extract

In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesized from a crude leaf extract of Rhizophora mucronata. The initial phytochemical analysis of the sample revealed the presence of tannins, steroids, terpenoids, saponins and flavonoids which contribute to the reduction and stabilization of silver ions during the synthesis process. Characterization techniques, including FTIR, UV–Vis spectroscopy, SEM and EDS, confirmed the successful synthesis of AgNPs with distinctive properties. The UV–Vis spectra exhibited an absorption peak around 420 nm, characteristic of AgNPs. SEM images revealed the crystal nature of the nanoparticles, indicating structural stability. The agar well-diffusion method was employed to determine the zone of inhibition against different pathogens. The leaf extract demonstrated the highest antibacterial potential, with substantial zones of inhibition observed against all tested pathogens. The potent anti-inflammatory activity showed the minimum and maximum inhibition of protein denaturation at concentration of 25 [Formula: see text]g/mL and 100 [Formula: see text]g/mL are 28% and 69%, respectively. The silver nanoparticles demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting protein denaturation, suggesting their potential therapeutic applications. The mangrove R. mucronata leaf extract decided to be a favorable reducing agent for the biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles with potent antimicrobial activity.

Synthesis and Spectroscopic Investigation of N-(Morpholinofurfuryl) Maleimide and its Copper (II) Complex uses in Biological Applications

The Mannich base N-(morpholinofurfuryl) maleimide (MOFM) is synthesized through a Mannich reaction using Maleimide as one of the starting materials. The reaction likely involves the condensation of Maleimide with formaldehyde and a secondary amine. It is then complexed with copper (II) to form the copper complex. This complexation process might involve reacting the Mannich base with a copper (II) salt under appropriate conditions. Characterization techniques such as FT-IR, UV–visible spectroscopy, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopy are used to confirm the formation of the complex and determine its structural features. The antioxidant properties of both the Mannich base ligand and its copper (II) complex are evaluated using assays such as DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and reducing power assay. These assays assess the ability of the compounds to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. It was found that MOFM had an IC50 value of 4.1762 x 10-4 and its Cu(II) complex had 2.5772 x 10-4 which confirms the ability of the prepared compounds to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. The antimicrobial activity of the copper (II) complex of MOFM and the ligand is tested against various microorganisms including Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar-well diffusion method. Both the compounds had good antibacterial and antifungal properties. By conducting these experiments and analyses, you can gain insights into the structural features, antioxidant properties, and antimicrobial efficacy of both the Mannich base ligand and its copper (II) complex, which could have potential applications in various fields such as pharmaceuticals, materials science, or environmental protection.

In-vitro assessment of α-amylase, photoprotective, antimicrobial activities, and chemical composition of Asphodelus microcarpus (Liliaceae) Essential Oils from Constantine (Eastern Algeria)

&lt;p&gt;This study examines the antidiabetic, photoprotective, and antibacterial properties of Asphodelus microcarpus (Liliaceae) essential oil (EO) collected from Constantine, Eastern Algeria. The EO was obtained by hydro-distillation and the composition was determined by Gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Fifty-one (51) compounds were identified in the EO; the major components are α-phellandrene (15.18%), α-pinene (14.27%), Sabinene (13.81%), β-Ocimene (Z) (12.69%), and δ-3- carène (9.20%). Based on the findings of the biological assays, the EO appeared to have dose-dependent anti-diabetic activity in the α-amylase test, with an IC50 value of 412.73±5.83µg/ml. Additionally, according to the Recommendation of the European Commission (2006), this oil displayed significant activity with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 31.89±0.10. Furthermore, the EO was tested for its antibacterial activity against five bacteria strains, and its antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger using the agar-well diffusion method. The studied EO showed only marginal activity against the tested microorganisms and was inactive against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, A.microcarpus EO showed notable antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger with a minimum concentration of 25µg/mL. It is important to note that this is the first report on the α-amylase and SPF effects of Asphodelus microcarpus EO.&lt;/p&gt;

Evaluating the potential of ethyl cellulose/eudragit-based griseofulvin loaded nanosponge matrix for topical antifungal drug delivery in a sustained release pattern

Fungal infections are very alarming nowadays and are common throughout the world. Severe fungal infections may lead to a significant risk of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Sustained delivery of antifungal agents is needed to mitigate this problem. In the current study, an attempt has been made to formulate griseofulvin-loaded nanosponges using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion technique. For characterization, griseofulvin loaded nanosponges were tested by different instrumental techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffractometer (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antifungal activity of the nanosponges was assessed against Candida albican strain using the agar well-diffusion method. Finally, the drug-loaded nanosponges' in vitro sustained release activity was evaluated. FTIR spectra showed no chemical interference between the drug and polymers. Some of the peaks of the drug are not visible in the FTIR spectrum, which suggests drug entrapment. PXRD data showed that the drug lost its high crystallinity when entrapped in the nanosponge matrix. From the morphological studies via SEM and TEM, a brief idea of the surface morphology of the nanosponges was obtained. The small pores throughout the structure proved its high porosity. The antifungal sensitivity assay was successful, and a zone of inhibition was observed in all the formulations. The in-vitro drug release study showed sustained behaviour. The sustaining effect was due to the polymer and cross-linker used, which gave rise to a porous scaffold matrix. From the results, it can be concluded that griseofulvin-loaded nanosponges can be used for antifungal drug delivery against various topical skin infections.

Calotropis Gigantea Latex-Derived Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Biofunctional Applications

Latex of C. gigantea was used to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) by the green chemistry approach. The crystalline size, shape, and purity of as-synthesized ZnO NPs were characterized through scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy techniques. Crystalline, spherical ZnO NPs with an average size of 21.8 nm were formed. In addition, the biological properties of the ZnO NPs, such as antioxidant and antibacterial activity, were evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay and the agar well-diffusion method. The highest free radical scavenging activities of 83.11 ± 1.89 % were observed at a concentration of 350 μg/mL of C. gigantea latex-mediated ZnO NPs. The latex in the C. gigantea latex-mediated ZnO NPs inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria. The maximum zone of inhibition was found in P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. C. gigantea latex-mediated ZnO NPs have significant biocompatibility and broad-spectrum antibacterial properties against wound-causing bacteria and, therefore, can be suggested for use in the formulation of novel creams or gels for healing applications.

ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTIBIOFILM ACTIVITIES OF VARIOUS VEGETABLE OILS AGAINST HELICOBACTER PYLORI

Objective: Vegetable oils have various biologically active components, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils help control nausea, vomiting, coughing and gas, as well as diarrhea and dyspepsia. It also helps to reduce stomach bloating and intestinal spasm pain. To sum up, the objective of this investigation was to assess the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of twelve different vegetable oils against the reference strain of Helicobacter pylori, NTCC 11637. Material and Method: For antibacterial activity, the minimum inhibitory concentration and the agar-well diffusion method were employed, and for antibiofilm activity, the microplate method. Result and Discussion: Vegetable oils showed antimicrobial activity at concentrations of 62.5-15.625 μg/ml and antibiofilm activity at concentrations of 250-15.625 μg/ml. According to our findings, the vegetable oils we utilized may have the ability to form a novel class of Helicobacter pylori inhibitors with anti-H. pylori properties.

Iron oxide nanoparticles of Cystoseira sp. Sugar alcohol treat MRSA and thyroid gland cancer

PurposeMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are emerging as a cause of suppurative thyroiditis. The resistance to several antibiotics and finding treatment has grown more difficult. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine biosynthesized iron oxide nanostructures’ antimicrobial activity as well as their cytotoxicity on normal and thyroid cancer cells. MethodsBy using the sugar alcohols of Cystoseira sp., the authors synthesized the advanced biosynthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (COINs). An agar-well diffusion method and a broth dilution method were used to investigate COINs’ antimicrobial activity against MRSA isolates. However, their cytotoxicity against normal and thyroid cancer cell lines was determined by the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. ResultsA GC–MS analysis of the dried Cystoseira sp. extract revealed a high percentage of D-mannitol, which is essential for the synthesis of spherical nanoparticles with a mean average size of 5.8 ± 0.8 nm. The COINs showed a higher inhibition zone (9–15 mm) for 66.6 % of MRSA isolates, and the MIC of COINs was 256 μg/ml. The cell wall of these bacteria inhabits the absorption of COINs. As a result, a large concentration of COINs is required to restrict bacterial growth. Moreover, COINs have cytotoxicity on thyroid cancer cell proliferation and normal thyroid cell lines at IC50s of 1.71 ± 0.1 and 25.9 ± 1.6 μg/ml, respectively. This can be due to the negative charge of sugar alcohols, which affect protein absorption and subsequent biological behaviors. ConclusionThe promising findings of this study are in favor of the creation of very small iron oxide nanostructures for therapy.