Highlights

• AgNPs synthesized by Penicillium citrinum showed effective antimicrobial properties against major pathogenic bacteria with a relatively low minimum inhibitory concentration.
• These AgNPs were less toxic than silver nitrate to freshwater organisms, indicating safer environmental applications.
• The study suggests a viable application of these AgNPs in decontaminating freshwater systems, offering an ecological benefit without significant adverse effects on aquatic life.

Summary

The research paper explores mycogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesis and application using the strain Penicillium citrinum IB-CLP11. These nanoparticles, measuring an average diameter of 57.5 ± 4 nm, have shown promising antimicrobial properties against bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 15 to 25 μg mL⁻¹, indicating potent antibacterial effects. AgNPs and silver nitrate did not cause acute toxicity in adult zebrafish, although they induced physiological changes.

The study highlights the increasing relevance of mycogenic AgNPs for environmental and industrial applications, particularly in freshwater decontamination. However, the research underscores the need for a detailed understanding of AgNPs’ actions and ecological effects to prevent potential hazards.

The paper calls for future studies to explore the ecotoxicity of biological AgNPs across various species and environments, emphasizing the importance of developing standardized protocols and guidelines for their safe usage. Such Standardisation will require collaborative efforts from industrial, regulatory, and private sectors to ensure the responsible development of nanotechnology applications.

Aguiar, A. P., Ottoni, C. A., Aquaroli, C. D. L. R., Mendes, E. C. V., de Souza Araújo, A. L., Simões, M. F., & Barbieri, E. (2024). Mycogenic silver nanoparticles from Penicillium citrinum IB-CLP11–their antimicrobial activity and potential toxicity effects on freshwater organisms. Environmental Science: Nano, doi: 10.1039/D4EN00002A.