Goji berries are a well-known superfood celebrated for their numerous health advantages, one of which includes their antibiotic properties. Researchers have recently discovered a successful method for extracting silver nanoparticles from these berries. The process involves drying, grinding, and filtering the goji berries to produce an extract, which is then combined with silver nitrate (AgNO3) and reduced. The presence of the silver nanoparticles was verified through visualization methods and their antimicrobial effectiveness was tested.
With sustainability becoming increasingly important across various domains, scientists are exploring an innovative natural source for generating antibacterial silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) — the simple goji berry.
Goji berries are a widely recognized superfood, associated with several health benefits, notably their antibiotic qualities. In a study published in AIP Advances by AIP Publishing, researcher Kamran Alam from Sapienza University of Rome, along with colleagues from NED University of Engineering and Technology and King Saud University, discovered an efficient technique to extract silver nanoparticles from these berries.
According to Alam, “Silver nanoparticles are capable of disrupting the structure of bacterial cell membranes, leading to the formation of reactive oxygen species that can inhibit bacterial growth.”
There are various methods for producing silver nanoparticles through chemical means, but environmentally-friendly approaches using natural extracts from plants or fruits are preferred. These methods are less energy-intensive and are safe, non-toxic, and compatible with humans.
In this collaborative project, Alam and his fellow researchers showcased a method to synthesize silver nanoparticles using commercially available goji berries.
Alam stated, “Goji berries can easily be sourced locally and are abundant in bioactive compounds that serve as natural reducing and stabilizing agents, eliminating the necessity for extra capping agents during the procedure.”
The researchers produced silver nanoparticles by drying, grinding, and filtering the goji berries to form an extract. Following this, they incorporated silver nitrate (AgNO3) and reduced the resulting solution.
The team confirmed the existence of silver nanoparticles through visualization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy. Additionally, they observed the nanoparticles under a microscope and evaluated their antimicrobial strength against Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterium responsible for infections like staph.
Looking ahead, Alam intends to examine the cellular toxicity and biocompatibility of the gold nanoparticles produced from goji berries, as this could significantly enhance biomedical research.
“This synthesis method is simple and efficient, requiring no additional chemicals or complicated equipment, and it has the potential for industrial-scale application,” he added.
