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Eco-friendly biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using marine-derived Fusarium equiseti: optimization, characterization, and evaluation of antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities

Summary

Scientists used a marine fungus called Fusarium equiseti to create tiny silver particles called nanoparticles in an environmentally-friendly way. These particles showed strong abilities to kill harmful bacteria and fungi, protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and fight breast cancer cells in laboratory tests. This green synthesis method offers a safer, non-toxic alternative to traditional chemical manufacturing while producing stable, multi-functional nanoparticles.

Background

Fungi serve as efficient biocatalysts for eco-friendly synthesis of metal nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are known for broad-spectrum antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Marine-derived fungi offer unique metabolic potential due to environmental stress adaptation.

Objective

To demonstrate the extracellular biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using the marine-derived fungus Fusarium equiseti, optimize production parameters, characterize the nanoparticles, and evaluate their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities.

Results

Optimal biosynthesis occurred at 30°C, pH 8, and 2 mM AgNO₃ over 72 hours, yielding spherical nanoparticles averaging 50 nm with zeta potential of -24.7 mV. AgNPs demonstrated MICs of 6.5 µg/mL against S. aureus and 7.5 µg/mL against E. coli, antifungal activity against C. albicans (MIC 8 µg/mL), antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ 56.98 µg/mL), and cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells (IC₅₀ 24.38 µg/mL). Molecular docking revealed strong binding to microbial cell wall proteins and human apoptotic regulator Bcl-2.

Conclusion

Marine-derived F. equiseti provides a sustainable platform for producing stable, multifunctional AgNPs with superior antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties compared to chemical synthesis. The unique marine stress-adapted metabolites enhance nanoparticle stability and bioactivity. Further in vivo validation and biocompatibility studies are needed to explore clinical and pharmaceutical potential.
  • Published in:World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40325316, DOI: 10.1007/s11274-025-04368-w
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