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Biogenic Synthesis of Papain-CuNPs
Papain-conjugated copper metallic nanoparticles (Papain-CuNPs) were successfully synthesized using Papain and CuSO4.5H2O. Characterization techniques including UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, HR-TEM, XRD, FE-SEM, zeta potential, and zeta sizer were employed to confirm the formation and properties of Papain-CuNPs.
Characterization of Papain-CuNPs
UV spectroscopy revealed a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) at 679 nm, confirming the formation of Papain-CuNPs. FT-IR spectrum displayed peaks indicative of O-H, N-H, and C=O functional groups, affirming the presence of Papain-CuNPs. EDAX analysis confirmed the presence of copper in the nanoparticles. Zeta potential (-42.6 mV) and zeta size (99.66 d. nm) indicated the stability and size of Papain-CuNPs. XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the synthesized nanoparticles.
Morphological Analysis of Papain-CuNPs
FE-SEM and HRTM revealed an oval structure for the Papain-CuNPs, with a size range of 16.71244–34.84793 nm.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities
Papain-CuNPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against human infectious microorganisms, including Citrobacter spp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. Notably, the synthesized Papain-CuNPs showed a substantial inhibitory zone (15 mm) against clinical P. aeruginosa.
Mechanism of Action
MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) of 125 µg/ml displayed bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa. The mechanism of action was further elucidated through electron microscopy (FE-SEM and HRTM), confirming cell damage and cell shrinking upon exposure to Papain-CuNPs.
Biomedical Applications
The significant antibacterial activity of Papain-CuNPs suggests their potential application in the treatment of P. aeruginosa infections, showcasing their biomedical relevance.