Antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles synthesized from latex and leaf extract of Ficus sycomorus

The development of green synthesis of nanoparticles has received increasing attention due to ease of preparation, less chemical handling, and eco-friendly. In the present study, crystalllization of silver ions to nanosized particles by latex and leaf aqueous extract of Ficus sycomorus through bioreduction process was assessed. Strong plasmon resonance of silver nanoparticles was observed around 435 nm. UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) were performed to examine the formation of silver nanoparticles (SNPs). The antibacterial activity of SNPs was tested against nine human pathogenic Gram -ve bacteria and one Gram +ve bacteria. Silver nanoparticles of extracts showed improved antibacterial activity on all the tested strains than for the extracts alone. This was confirmed either by optical density or zone of inhibition measurements. Silver nanoparticles was more effective in liquid than in solid medium probably because of better contact, for the higher silver content, with bacterial cells. It is concluded that fig (F. sycomorus) leaves and latex extracts can be used for the synthesis of SNPs that is environmentally friendly and cost effective. These preparations can be used for various biotechnology and medical applications for controlling pathogenic bacteria with better dispersion and, consequently, better efficiency in aqueous environment. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.