Emerging perspectives of plant-derived nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents

Recently, antimicrobial resistance is the most challenging and significant concern faced by the present generation since diverse pathogenic microbes have gained resistance to even newly manufactured drugs which complicates the treatment of most common microbial diseases. Numerous attempts have been made to establish alternative ways to overcome the antimicrobial resistance towards the drugs. In this connection, the NPs have emerged as the most innovative and promising antimicrobial agents for the various treatment approaches. Furthermore, plant-based NPs have been widely used for various biomedical applications such as antimicrobial agents and cancer therapy due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of synthesis and environment friendly nature. Eco-friendly plant-derived NPs are viewed as critical components of future medicinal chemistry to control various life -threatening diseases in humans and animals. The present review focuses on an updated assessment of synthe-sis methodologies adopted for preparation of plant-derived NPs and antimicrobial efficiency of plant-derived NPs. We also explored the role of NPs in drug transport and mode of action of the frequently used plant -derived NPs, specifically silver, gold, copper and zinc NPs. The environmental and health aspects of NPs used in the medical field are also reviewed with the probable solutions for minimizing side effects. Hence, this review summarizes all important aspects (synthesis, medical applicability, challenges and possible solutions) of plant -derived NPs which can provide the unique platform for researchers working in the field of plant-derived NPs for the exploration of various biomedical applications.

Automated summary

This article discusses the current issue of antimicrobial resistance, introduces the application of plant-derived nanoparticles in the medical field, and summarizes aspects such as synthesis, medical applicability, challenges, and potential solutions.