Green-Synthesised Selenium Nanoparticles Using Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract: Characterization And Antibacterial Activity

Abstract

Selenium nanoparticles have received considerable attention due to their biological and pharmaceutical characteristics. The current study explores the green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) using Moringa oleifera leaf extract and investigates their physicochemical characteristics and antibacterial efficacy.

The biosynthesized selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) were characterized using several techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Additionally, the antibacterial activity of the Se NPs was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus (a Gram-positive bacterium) and Escherichia coli (a Gram-negative bacterium) using the agar well diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method.

UV-Vis analysis confirmed the formation of Se NPs with a peak around 268 nm, while FTIR revealed the involvement of plant phytochemicals in reduction and stabilization. SEM and AFM showed spherical nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 60 to 120 nm and a roughness of 26.6 nm. The results indicated a more potent inhibitory effect against S. aureus, with a MIC of 58.2 μg/ml for both pathogens.

These findings support the potential application of green-synthesized Se NPs as eco-friendly and effective antimicrobial agents for biomedical use.