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Green-Synthesized Nanomaterials from Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms: A Sustainable Strategy Against Antimicrobial Resistance

Summary

Scientists are developing a new weapon against antibiotic-resistant bacteria using mushrooms. These special nanoparticles derived from edible and medicinal mushrooms can kill harmful bacteria in multiple ways without the toxic chemicals used in traditional manufacturing. The nanoparticles work by disrupting bacterial membranes, creating harmful molecules called free radicals, and even boosting your body’s natural immune response. This environmentally friendly approach could become an important tool in fighting dangerous infections that don’t respond to current antibiotics.

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health crisis, projected to cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050. Conventional antibiotics are becoming increasingly ineffective due to microbial adaptation and overuse. Green nanotechnology offers a sustainable alternative using bioactive compounds from edible and medicinal mushrooms.

Objective

This review explores mushroom-derived nanoparticles (myco-NPs) as sustainable, eco-friendly antimicrobial agents against drug-resistant microorganisms. The study evaluates the relationships between nanoparticle synthesis, structural characteristics, and biological activity while assessing their translational potential as alternatives to conventional antimicrobials.

Results

Myco-NPs exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity through multiple mechanisms including membrane disruption, reactive oxygen species generation, immune modulation, antibiotic synergy, and biofilm disruption. Size ranges from 2-200 nm depending on mushroom species and synthesis conditions. Optimal synthesis parameters include pH 4-11, elevated temperatures, controlled extract concentrations, and appropriate incubation times.

Conclusion

Mushroom-derived nanoparticles represent a promising, sustainable platform for combating antimicrobial resistance through multifactorial antimicrobial mechanisms. Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to address standardization, safety evaluation, and large-scale production challenges. Myco-nanotechnology aligns with circular bioeconomy principles while offering potential clinical and industrial applications.
  • Published in:Pharmaceutics,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 41304727
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