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Biological applications of yttrium oxide nanocomposites synthesized from Aspergillus penicillioides and their potential role in environmental remediation

Summary

Researchers used a fungus called Aspergillus penicillioides to create tiny particles of yttrium oxide that can remove dangerous metals like lead and nickel from contaminated water. These particles work like microscopic sponges that grab onto the toxic metals when exposed to UV light. The particles also kill bacteria and fight harmful free radicals, making them useful for both cleaning water and potentially treating infections.

Background

Industrial wastewater contains hazardous heavy metals like lead and nickel that pose serious health risks. Biological synthesis of nanocomposites using microbes as reducing and stabilizing agents has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative for environmental remediation. This study explores the potential of fungal-synthesized yttrium oxide nanocomposites for removing toxic metals from contaminated water.

Objective

The goal was to synthesize Y₂O₃ nanocomposites using Aspergillus penicillioides in a biodegradable manner and evaluate their efficacy in remediating lead and nickel from industrial wastewater. The study aimed to characterize the nanocomposites and demonstrate their biological applications including antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Results

The synthesized Y₂O₃ nanocomposites exhibited spherical morphology with sizes ranging from 31.4 to 61.9 nm. They demonstrated 60% adsorption efficacy for lead and nickel at optimal conditions (pH 6, UV light, 5 hours contact time). The nanocomposites showed excellent antimicrobial activity against multiple bacterial strains, significant antioxidant properties, and good biocompatibility with human red blood cells.

Conclusion

Aspergillus penicillioides-synthesized Y₂O₃ nanocomposites effectively remove lead and nickel from industrial wastewater and demonstrate promising biological applications. The bio-based nanocomposites serve as efficient bioremediating agents with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, offering a sustainable solution for environmental remediation.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 41136457, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-21104-4
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