Evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesised using oil containing apple seed oil formulation against oral pathogens: an in vitro study

Berachah Stanley,
Chaya Chhabra,*
Swati Rana,
Zahid Sana,
Manan Phalke

Abstract

Background: Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are known for their antimicrobial properties and are widely used in medical and dental applications. Combining ZnO NPs with natural oils, such as apple seed oil, offers potential benefits against oral pathogens. This study explores the antimicrobial efficacy of ZnO NPs synthesized using apple seed oil. Aims: To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized using apple seed oil against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and Methodology: This in-vitro study was conducted in a controlled laboratory environment to assess the antimicrobial properties of ZnO NPs combined with apple seed oil against selected oral pathogens. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized from zinc sulfate heptahydrate and sodium hydroxide, followed by calcination. These nanoparticles were dispersed in apple seed oil. The agar cup diffusion method was used to test antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus by applying different concentrations (25μL,50μL,100μL) of the nanoparticle-oil mixture to bacterial cultures. The diameters of the inhibition zones were measured to determine antimicrobial efficacy. Data were analyzed to compare the effectiveness of varying concentrations of ZnO NPs in apple seed oil against the pathogens. Results: The study revealed that zinc oxide nanoparticles in apple seed oil in varying concentrations (25μL,50μL,100μL) did not show significant antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, or Staphylococcus aureus. No discernible zones of inhibition were observed for any tested concentrations, indicating a lack of efficacy. Conclusions: Zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized with apple seed oil did not exhibit significant antimicrobial properties against the tested oral pathogens. This combination appears ineffective under the study conditions. Further research is needed to explore alternative formulations and understand interactions between antimicrobial agents and bacterial strains to develop effective treatments for oral infections.