Evaluation of silver nanoparticle antifungal activity biosynthesized from Nigella sativa extract, against Aspergillus species

Résumé fourni par la source

Addressing emergent antifungal resistance associated with Aspergillus species and public health concerns posed by aflatoxin contamination requires new antifungal strategies. Nigella sativa (black seed) has shown promise when integrated with nanotechnology, making it a candidate for reducing aflatoxin risks. Antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using N. sativa was assessed against pathogenic Aspergillus species, and AgNP effects were assessed on expression of fungal genes related to toxin biosynthesis, membrane integrity, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using aqueous extracts from N. sativa, and were spectroscopically characterized, confirming the functional groups involved in nanoparticle stabilization. Antifungal activity and gene expression were demonstrated in vitro and in vivo against Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, and A. niger. The Ag-NPs biosynthesized by N. sativa had antifungal activity (MICs = 40–60 µg mL-1; MFCs = 90–120 µg mL-1), and A. fumigatus was the most sensitive strain. Downregulation of aflR was reduced by 68% in A. flavus, erg11 by 42–55% in the three fungi, and catA was upregulated by 85–110%. These results indicate that Ag-NPs derived from N. sativa exert antifungal activity against Aspergillus species by at least two actions, suppression of aflatoxin biosynthesis and antifungal activity. This nanotechnology approach offers promise as a safe and effective alternative to traditional fungicide medications, which requires further in vivo evaluation.

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