Enhanced myco-synthesis of selenium and zinc oxide nanoparticles and evaluating their anticancer activities and role against antibiotic resistance genes in certain bacterial strains.

BACKGROUND: In an array to check microbial resistance against generally used antibiotics, it is essential to create innovative and efficient antimicrobial agents. Therefore, nanoparticles (NPs) with their antimicrobial activities describe an effective solution. In this study, we synthesized Selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using Alternaria alternata fungus, then their characterization were evaluated using several techniques.

RESULTS: We explored the potential of antimicrobial impact of Se-NPs and ZnO-NPs against negative and positive grams antibiotic resistance bacterial strains in combination with penicillin, Ceftriaxone and Cefipime. Moreover, antibiotic resistance gene expression was assessed after those treatments. The results demonstrated that Se-NPs and ZnO-NPs displayed antibacterial properties, while the expression of antibiotic resistance genes decreased when exposed to a combination of NPs and antibiotics. This suggests the presence of both synergistic and additive effects in these treatments. Furthermore, the cytotoxic effects of Se-NPs and ZnO-NPs were assessed, revealing their potent anticancer properties against MCF-7, A549, and HepG2 cancer cells and lower cytotoxic values for HFB-4 standard cell line. Ultimately, the production efficiency of both NPs was enhanced through gamma irradiation.

CONCLUSIONS: According to the results, it seems that the green synthesis of Se-NPs and ZnO-NPs promotes environmental sustainability and cost-effective approach. This study provides insights into the development of new antibacterial and anticancer agents . The eco-friendly production of nanoparticles suggests also a sustainable approach to combating bacteria resistant to antibiotics.