ANTI-FUNGAL ACTIVITY OF SELENIUM NANOPARTICLES SYNTHESIZED USING Symplocos racemosa AGAINST Candida albicans

Background: When left unchecked, Candida albicans emerges as an important cause for morbidity and mortality in debilitated patients. However, with proper inhibitory measures, we can curb its excessive proliferation. Thus, the aim of our study was to examine the plausible antifungal potential of selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) synthesized using the bark of Symplocos racemosa (Sr) against Candida albicans (Ca).

Materials and Methods: Sr was powdered and made into a filtered herbal formulation. Sodium selenite solution was added to it and the conjunction was kept in an orbital shaker for the synthesis of nanoparticles. The Se-NPs were characterized by UV-vis-spectroscopy and were then centrifuged until the final pellet was collected and powdered. A fresh fungal suspension of Ca was dispersed on a Rose Bengal Agar plate and the Agar Well Diffusion method was used. Different concentrations of Se-NPs (50, 100 and 150) μL were incorporated into the wells and were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. Fluconazole used as a positive control and the zones of inhibition were recorded.

Results: A colour change was observed after the synthesis of Se-NPs. The prepared particles were then characterized by a peak seen at 285 nm in UV-vis-spectroscopy. The zone of inhibition increased in size with an increase in Se-NP concentration. Fluconazole was the most effective against Ca closely followed by 150 μL of our Se-NPs.

Conclusion: Se-NPs synthesized using Sr is an effective antifungal agent against Ca. It is eco-friendly, rapid and easy to synthesize. They are potentially an inexpensive solution for Ca.