Researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, have developed a potent antibacterial agent using eco-friendly extracts from medicinal plants, offering a sustainable solution to the growing global challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), officials said.
Addressing the Growing Threat of Superbugs
Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as one of the most serious global health concerns. The overuse of traditional antibiotics has led to the rise of superbugs—bacteria that can withstand conventional treatments. Around the world, scientists are searching for novel and safer alternatives to combat these drug-resistant pathogens.
Eco-Friendly Nanotechnology Innovation
The NIT Rourkela team is led by Professor Suman Jha, Associate Professor in the Department of Life Science. Her research scholars include Kumari Subham, Sonali Jena, and Monalisha Ojha. It has published its findings in the prestigious journal Surfaces and Interphases.
Their research focuses on zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs)—microscopic materials so small that tens of thousands can fit across the width of a human hair. These nanoparticles act as powerful antibacterial agents by damaging bacterial cells and disrupting their normal functions.
“Electrically charged zinc ions stress and kill bacteria by damaging their membranes and blocking vital cellular processes,” said Prof. Jha.
Turning to Nature for Green Synthesis
Traditionally, synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles involves toxic chemicals that pose risks to both humans and the environment. To overcome this, the NIT Rourkela researchers adopted an eco-friendly ‘green synthesis’ approach, using leaf and petal extracts from marigold, mango, and eucalyptus plants. These natural extracts not only helped reduce zinc salts into zinc oxide nanocrystals. It has also left behind adsorbed phytocompounds—bioactive molecules that enhance antibacterial activity.
The Role of the “Phyto-Corona”
As reported by orissapost.com, beyond synthesis, the plant extracts serve multiple roles. They:
*Stabilize the nanoparticles by forming an herbal protective layer, known as a phyto-corona.
*Control the release of zinc ions, ensuring steady antibacterial action.
*Enhance the antimicrobial efficiency by leveraging the medicinal properties of plant-derived phytocompounds.
This “green-synthesised” nanoparticle system represents a sustainable and effective antimicrobial platform, merging nanoscience with nature’s chemistry.
Toward Sustainable and Scalable Healthcare Solutions
Professor Jha emphasized that this innovation marks a step toward developing a new generation of green nanomaterials capable of supporting sustainable healthcare systems. “Our vision is to develop scalable, affordable, and environmentally safe antimicrobial materials that can be integrated into healthcare, sanitation, and food preservation,” Jha said. “By harnessing India’s rich biodiversity and indigenous plant resources, we aim to create self-reliant innovations that align with global health and sustainability goals.”