ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY OF COPPER NANOPARTICLES SYNTHESIZED USING MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAVES EXTRACT AGAINST BACILLUS SUBTILIS AND SALMONELLA TYPHI

The increasing resistance of bacterial pathogens to conventional antibiotics has led researchers to explore alternative solutions, including nanotechnology-based approaches. This study investigates the antimicrobial efficacy of synthesized copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using Moringa oleifera leaves extract against the pathogenic bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella typhi. The primary objectives included the synthesis of CuNPs using Moringa oleifera leaves extract, characterization of the nanoparticles using UV-Visible Spectrum and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrum (FTIR) analyses, and assessment of their antimicrobial efficacy. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of Tanins, Alkaloids, Quinones, and phenolic compounds, which are known for their antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated that Bacillus subtilis was exhibited a higher reaction with significant inhibition zones than Salmonella typhi observed using Ciproflaxacine as the control. The synthesized CuNPs displayed variable antimicrobial activity against both bacterial strains, with Bacillus subtilis showing sensitivity to CuNPs at a concentration of 75 mg/ml (26 mm zone of inhibition) and resistance at higher concentrations. Salmonella typhi demonstrated limited sensitivity to CuNPs, with a maximum inhibition zone of 23 mm at 75 mg/ml. This research highlights the potential of Moringa oleifera leaves extract as a green approach for synthesizing CuNPs with significant antimicrobial properties, particularly against Bacillus subtilis , highlighting its therapeutic potential in combating bacterial infections.