Antibacterial activity of green-synthesized gold nanoparticles produced by Spirulina platensis algae

Gold nanoparticles Green synthesis Antibacterial activity Antioxidant assay

Authors

  • Sara Muonas Department of Biology College of Education, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Qadisiyah, Iraq.
  • Raid Kadhim Abed Alasady
    raid.al-asady@qu.edu.iq
    Department of Biology, College of Education, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Qadisiyyah, Iraq.
June 25, 2025

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Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) synthesized using green methods are of paramount importance due to their potential in combating antimicrobial resistance and enhancing antioxidant therapies. Incorporating Spirulina platensis into nanoparticle synthesis offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative that addresses key challenges in modern nanomedicine. This research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of S. platensis as a bio-reductant for AuNP synthesis and to assess the resulting nanoparticles' biological activities. The purpose was to establish a reproducible, green synthesis protocol for high-quality AuNPs with improved biomedical potential. Spirulina platensis samples were procured in powdered form from a reputable supplier, ensuring consistency and purity for the subsequent extraction and synthesis processes. UV-Visible spectroscopy, XRD, and FE-SEM were used for characterization, while GC-MS analysis indicated bioactive reducing agents in the extract. AuNP production was confirmed by a significant surface plasmon resonance peak at 405?nm in the UV-Visible examination. XRD patterns showed a face-centered cubic structure with a prominent peak at 38° (2?). The FE-SEM scans showed that the AuNPs were mostly spherical, with an average diameter of 20-30 nm. Antibacterial assays showed inhibition zones of up to 20 mm against Acinetobacter baumannii and 18 mm against Enterococcus faecalis, with activity being dose-dependent, while antioxidant assays recorded a maximum scavenging inhibition of 73.8% at a concentration of 1?mg/ml. GC-MS analysis identified key bioactive compounds, including fatty acids, which make up approximately 30% of the extract, facilitating effective nanoparticle synthesis. Overall, the study confirms that S. platensis is an effective bio-reductant for the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles, which exhibit significant potential for various biomedical applications.