Thermo-Chemical Induced Production of Silver Nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and their Antimicrobial Activity towards Human Pathogens

Nanotechnology is a fast growing and emerging new technology in recent years due to their extensive application. In current scenario, chemically induced synthesis of silver nanoparticles has played a significant role. In this study silver nanoparticles were produced in de-ionized water and dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) using D-galactose as reducing agent at 80°C. Silver nitrate (AgNO₃) was employed as the metal precursor for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). D-galactose acted as reducing agent for the conversion of silver salts into silver ions under experimental condition. The formation of nanoparticles and Plasmon resonance kinetic energy was determined by UV - visible spectroscopy. The de-ionized water solution of D-galactose was better reductive activity in 400nm whereas DMSO solution of D-galactose in 350nm. The produced nanoparticles were subjected to perform antimicrobial efficacy against selected pathogens. D-galactose induced silver nanoparticles produced in de-ionized water exhibited higher antimicrobial activity against bacterial pathogens. Among the pathogens tested Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella paratyphi A showed maximum antibacterial activity. No activity was observed towards yeast Candida albicans. In conclusion D-galactose mediated silver nanoparticles using de-ionized water could be cost effective and eco-friendly technique for bulk production. The characterization studies are under progress to understand the size, shape and topography of the nanoparticles. Further biocompatibility and cytotoxicity studies are essential for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.