Semiconductor nanoparticles (NPs) are nanocrystals with a ranging diameter of 2 nm - 10 nm. Due to the intrinsic properties of Copper Sulfide (CuS), which are dependent on their size, these nanoparticles have many industrial and bio-medical applications. On the other hand, the biogenic synthesis of metallic crystals has been considered as a "green" synthesis alternative since no toxic chemicals or contamination are involved in the process. Also, using biogenic pathways to fabricate Copper-based NPs has been shown to develop exciting characteristics in the particles, such as potential antimicrobial effect. Based on these considerations, the present work was focused on: (i) developing a novel biogenic synthesis protocol using Gram-negative and positive bacteria, (ii) determining the effect of biogenic synthesis on the surface composition of the CuS NPs and, (iii) evaluate their potential antimicrobial capacity. To accomplish these objectives, the CuS precursors, copper sulfate (CuSO4) and sodium sulfide (Na2S) interacted with E. Coli, E. Cloacae, and E. Faecalis bacteria to create the biosynthesized CuS nanoparticles (BSCN). The results obtained of the biosynthesized CuS NPs showed a main absorption peak at ~1050 nm and very strong peaks on the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses, demonstrating specific patterns of CuS NPs. Moreover, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Artemia Salina toxicity assays were conducted to determine possible adverse effects with living organisms. The latter gave an insight into minimum and maximum concentrations for proper use as for antimicrobial agents. After performing toxicity assays, 2D Electrophoresis and Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy were performed for better detection of organic compounds and quantification of proteins on the nanoparticle surface. In conclusion, the fabrication of CuS nanoparticles demonstrated cost-effectivity during the process and an excellent synthesis alternative since it provides antimicrobial activity for Metal-Based particles. The results obtained of MIC and <i>Artemia Salina </i>assays improved the understanding between BSCN-organism.

Antimicrobial effect of biologically synthesized copper sulfide nanoparticles

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.