BIOGENIC SYNTHESIS OF SELENIUM CHITOSAN NANOCOMPOSITES THROUGH MELIA DUBIA EXTRACT AND BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

This research examines the eco-friendly synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using Melia stem extract and their integration into chitosan-based nanocomposites (NCs) to combat bacteria and biofilms. The antioxidant activity was evaluated through various in vitro assays DPPH, H₂O₂, FRAP, ABTS, and nitric oxide all showed potent, dose-dependent free radical scavenging effects. The nanocomposites were characterized and evaluated to combat typical wound-causing microbes including E. coli, S. aureus, Pseudomonas sp., E. faecalis and E. faecium. The antimicrobial potential effective in tackling these common wound pathogens was evaluated through the well diffusion technique, time-dependent bactericidal analysis, and biofilm inhibition studies. The results revealed dose-dependent antimicrobial effects, with E. faecium and E. faecalis exhibiting the highest sensitivity at 100 µg/mL. Additionally, the SeNPs-chitosan NCs effectively inhibited biofilm formation, especially at 100 µg/mL. These findings suggest that M. dubia-mediated SeNCs could be sustainable, biocompatible alternatives to conventional antimicrobials for wound healing applications. Cytotoxic effect assessed with the brine shrimp lethality test indicated high survival rates, suggesting low toxicity. Incorporating the SeNPs into the chitosan nanocomposite improved their dispersion and biocompatibility. Zebrafish embryo tests demonstrated excellent safety at the highest concentrations, 80% in viability and hatching and no notable morphological abnormalities. M. dubia-derived SeNPs incorporated within chitosan nanocomposites present a sustainable platform with strong antioxidant properties and high biocompatibility, highlighting their potential for future use in drug delivery, tissue regeneration, and therapeutic applications, under SDG we targeted 3; Good Health Well-being, 14; Life on Land.