Antibacterial Activity of Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles using Himbabao (Broussonetia LuzonicaBlanco)Leaves’ Extract

Abstract

The antibacterial resistance of pathogenic bacteria is a major roadblock in the successful treatment of infectious bacterial diseases. Advancements in nano medicine opened new avenues in treating AMR. This study investigated the ability of endemic plant Himbabao (Broussonetia luzonicaBlanco) to synthesise silver nanoparticles and its inhibition on the growth of Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. Silver nanoparticles were synthesised using a green synthesis of 30mL 1mM silver nitrate (AgNO3) and 15mL leaf extract. Three variations were grownat different temperatures: V1 (70°C), V2 (80°C), and V3 (90°C). AgNO3 and the leaves’ extract were prepared as a negative control while Chloramphenicol as a positive control. The prepared samples were subjected to antimicrobial assay against the given bacteria. V3 showed the largest zone of inhibition at 19.5mm for K. pneumoniae, 17mm for P. aeruginosa and 9.4mm for S. aureus while V2 inhibited E. faecalis better at 6.4mm among the variations on the average. Results of the SEM showed that the size of the synthesised copper nanoparticles fits within category 2 (500 nm> size >100 nm). Shapes of the grown copper nanoparticles were mostly irregular: nanorods, nano-spheres, and truncated triangles. Results of the EDX proved that the synthesised products’ elemental composition is mostly silver further proved by UV-VIS absorption of 375 to 450nm. This study proved that an endemic and indigenous plant such as Himbabao (Broussonetia luzonicaBlanco)could be used to biosynthesis silver nanoparticles that had significant antibacterial activity against antibacterial resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis.