ANTIMICROBIAL POTENTIAL OF SUSTAINABLE AND BIOCOMPATIBLE POLYMERIC (STARCH/PVA) ELECTROSPUN NANOSCAFFOLDS INCORPORATED WITH CUO NANOPARTICLES FROM GRACILARIA CORTICATA (RED MARINE MACROALGAE) EXTRACT

Abstract

This study explores the green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) using Gracilaria corticata extract and their incorporation into starch/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) electrospun nanoscaffolds for antimicrobial applications. The algal extract served as a reducing and stabilizing agent, with CuO NPs characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy (SPR peak at 291 nm), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) (Cu–O bonds), X-ray diffraction (XRD) (monoclinic phase), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (spherical, <100 nm). Electrospun scaffolds exhibited uniform nanofibers with embedded CuO NPs, confirmed by SEM and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)-enhanced thermal stability. Antimicrobial assays at 50 µg/mL demonstrated broad-spectrum activity, with nanoscaffolds outperforming individual components: inhibition zones of 30±0.34 mm (Escherichia coli), 28±0.13 mm (Klebsiella pneumoniae), and 27±0.17 mm (Penicillium spp.), compared to 17±0.36 mm (extract) and 26±0.13 mm (CuO NPs) for E. coli. While ciprofloxacin (33±0.58 mm) and voriconazole (28±0.39 mm) showed higher efficacy, the nanoscaffolds’ synergistic effects and biocompatibility highlight their potential as sustainable antimicrobial wound dressings. This eco-friendly approach combines algal bioactivity, nanotechnology, and polymeric delivery for combating multidrug-resistant infections.