Recent research led by Khushboo Dasauni from the Department of Biotechnology at Sir J.C. Bose Technical Campus has unveiled an innovative method for synthesizing sulphur nanoparticles (SNPs) using extracts from the Cannabis sativa plant. This green synthesis approach not only presents an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional nanoparticle production but also demonstrates significant antibacterial properties and potential benefits for plant growth.
The study, published in the journal Heliyon, highlights the effective use of sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate in combination with Cannabis sativa leaf extracts to create SNPs. The researchers employed various analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, to confirm the formation and morphology of the nanoparticles. They found that the SNPs exhibited both spherical and rod-shaped forms, with sizes ranging from 20 to 100 nanometers.
One of the most notable findings of this research is the antibacterial activity of the synthesized SNPs. Using the disc diffusion method, the team tested the nanoparticles against several bacterial strains, including both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The results showed that Escherichia coli exhibited the largest zone of inhibition, suggesting that these nanoparticles could serve as a potent antibacterial agent, comparable to traditional antibiotics like streptomycin sulfate. Dasauni stated, “The antibacterial activity of the SNPs is promising, especially in the face of rising antibiotic resistance.”
In addition to their antibacterial properties, the SNPs also demonstrated significant plant growth-promoting effects. In pot experiments, Cannabis sativa treated with the nanoparticles showed a remarkable 30% increase in biomass, with notable improvements in shoot and root lengths. This growth enhancement could have substantial implications for agricultural practices, particularly in enhancing crop yields and sustainability.
The findings present exciting commercial opportunities across various sectors. In agriculture, the use of SNPs as a natural fertilizer could reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers, promoting environmentally sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of these nanoparticles could be harnessed in biomedicine, potentially leading to new treatments for bacterial infections.
Dasauni’s research showcases a promising avenue for integrating green chemistry into both agriculture and healthcare. As industries increasingly seek sustainable solutions, the development of sulphur nanoparticles from Cannabis sativa represents a significant step forward. The study’s findings not only contribute to the scientific understanding of nanoparticle synthesis but also open new doors for commercial applications in a world that is increasingly focused on sustainability and health.
