Nano-encapsulated Cu(II) complex as a promising insecticidal for Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Abstract

Nanoparticle (NP) research is an area of scientific interest with high potential for application in biomedical, optical, and electronic fields. Due to their relatively large surface area compared to their mass, NPs can be more chemically reactive and change their reactive strength or other properties. NP-based drug delivery systems provide transport and an effective and controlled way to release the drugs. This work aimed to study the solubility and biological activity of nano-encapsulated copper metal complexes for the induction of toxicity and mortality in larvae of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. After the nano-encapsulated metal complexes were prepared, the efficiency of this incorporation was determined by electron paramagnetic resonance, and toxicity bioassays were performed. The polymeric-based PLGA NPs encapsulating metal complexes exhibited high toxicity and specificity for target organisms (insect vectors, i.e., A. aegypti), with relatively less environmental impact and long-term control of their breeding.

Keywords: Dengue; Drug release; Population control; Social technology; Vectors; Zika virus.

Fig. 1

Structure of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid). x = number of lactic acid units; y = number of glycolic acid units.

Fig. 2

EPR spectra. CuSO₄.5H₂O (black line) and CuSO₄.5H₂O and glycerol (1:2) (red line), at 100 K, A) pH = 5, B) pH = 11; and C) Cu(II):glycerol in the ratios 1:2 and 1:10, at 100 K and pH 5.