Eco-Friendly Fabrication of SnO2-Curcumin Nanoparticles via Pterocarpus marsupium Extract: Unveiling Potent Antimicrobial and Anticancer Applications

Background

Curcumin-SnO₂ Nanoparticles (NPs) are advanced materials that combine organic molecules and inorganic substances in a single nanoscale platform to create hybrids with unique and enhanced properties. The synergy between the two components often results in improved functionality, stability and efficacy. 

Objectives

The current work was conducted on Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs synthesized using an eco-friendly method with Pterocarpus marsupium extract and evaluated their antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. 

Materials and Methods

The synthesized Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs were characterized using various methods, including XRD, SEM, PL and UV-visible spectroscopy analyses. The antimicrobial property of Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs was assessed by the disc diffusion method against various pathogens. The cytotoxicity of Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs on MDA-MB-231 cancer cells was assessed by a WST-1 assay. 

Results

Characterization of Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) revealed a tetragonal structure. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra ranging from 350 to 550 nm indicated the presence of tin and oxygen vacancies (surface defects). The Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs exhibited higher antimicrobial activity against Bacillus megaterium, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans than conventional antibiotics. The Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs effectively inhibited the viability of breast cancer cells. 

Conclusion

These findings suggest the potential use of Curcumin-SnO₂ NPs in healthcare institutions to improve patient outcomes.