Green synthesis of silver nanoparticle using pollen extract from Tetragonisca angustula a stingless bee

Abstract

This study explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a methanolic extract of fermented pollen from Tetragonisca angustula, a species of stingless bees. The AgNPs exhibit spherical morphology, low charge values, and suspension stability, with their unique composition attributed to elements from the pollen extract. Antioxidant assays show comparable activity between the pollen extract and AgNPs, emphasizing the retention of antioxidant effects. The synthesized AgNPs demonstrate antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria, highlighting their potential in combating bacterial resistance. The AgNPs exhibit no toxic effects on Drosophila melanogaster and even enhance the hatching rate of eggs. The study underscores the innovative use of stingless bee pollen extract in green synthesis, offering insights into the varied applications of AgNPs in biomedicine.

Keywords: Antimicrobial; Nanoparticles; Stingless bees; Sustainable.

Fig. 1

Dynamic light scattering (A) and zeta potential analysis (B) of AgNPs produced with pollen extract

Fig. 2

Analysis of UV–visible (A) spectrum and FT-IR (B) of pollen extract, and AgNPs produced with 50 mg/ml pollen extract

Fig. 3

A–C scanning electron microscopy images at different magnifications, and D EDX spectrum and mapping of Pollen AgNPs

Fig. 4

Antioxidant activity tests FRAP (A), DPPH (B) and ORAC (C) of Pollen AgNPs

Fig. 5

Results of the antimicrobial action in MIC of AgNPs synthesized. A Inhibition results in E. coli mcr; B Inhibition results in S. aureus MRSA

Fig. 6

Toxicity evaluation of the AgNPs in Drosophila melanogaster. A Toxicity assay in D. melanogaster; B Effects in eclosion number of in D. melanogaster