Green Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by Terminalia chebula Dried Fruit Extract: Characterization and Antibacterial Action

Abstract

Introduction: Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) have emerged as potential antibacterial agents. In this study, we aimed to synthesize CuONPs using Terminalia chebula ( T. chebula)  dried fruit extract and evaluate their antibacterial activity against specific wound pathogens. Our primary objective was to comprehensively characterize dried  T. chebula fruit (TCF)-CuONPs and assess their antibacterial efficacy.

Methods: CuONPs were synthesized through a green synthesis approach employing T. chebula dried fruit extract. Structural and compositional characterization involved UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antibacterial activity of CuONPs was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli through various assays, including agar well diffusion, time-kill curve, protein leakage analysis, and antibiofilm assays.

Results: Characterization revealed a distinct absorption peak at 440 nm in UV-visible spectroscopy, spherical morphology under SEM, and the presence of copper in EDX analysis. TEM revealed nanoparticle dimensions of approximately 10-12 nm. In antibacterial assays, TCF-CuONPs displayed significant efficacy, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibiting heightened susceptibility.

Conclusion: This study successfully synthesized eco-friendly copper oxide nanoparticles using T. chebula dried fruit extract and thoroughly characterized their structural and compositional attributes. CuONPs exhibited substantial antibacterial potency against specific wound pathogens, indicating their potential in wound management applications. These findings contribute to the development of sustainable antibacterial solutions with implications for healthcare and environmental sustainability. Further research can delve into the mechanisms and broader applications of CuONPs based on the specific experimental outcomes.