Green-synthesized metal and metal oxide nanoparticles as emerging antifungal agents: current advances, mechanisms, and future perspectives
K. P. Vijayalakshmi, T Swaramanjari, M. Shanmugavel, A. Gnanamani
Abstract
“Nanotechnology” is the manipulation, fusion, and reduction of matter at the nanoscale to create goods with improved properties, such as those that are stronger, lighter, cleaner, definite, and particular. Materials in the nanoscale have diameters between 1 and 100 nm and have unique characteristics that set them apart from their bulk counterparts. Synthesis of nanoparticles by biological methods uses plant extract, bacteria, yeast, and fungi for production. Nanomaterials are applied in almost every field and have enormous possibilities in scientific endeavors. However, very few papers support the evidence of the antifungal properties of nanoparticles. Fungi have a hard time being controlled because they have become resistant to several antifungal medications. It is crucial to research new antifungals to replace existing control methods to combat this resistance. Metal oxide nanoparticles are reported for their high efficiency against antimicrobial activity, are cost-effective, and are applied in various other fields. The use of nanoparticles for antifungal properties is of interest because other chemicals are toxic. Recent research has shown the antimicrobial properties of many material nanoparticles, including copper, silver, zinc, gold and many more. This review explores the antifungal properties of nanoparticles, the way they work to combat fungus, their method of action, and their potential for use in industries.