Extracellular synthesis of silver nanoparticle by Pseudomonas hibiscicola - Mechanistic approach

Biosynthesis of nanoparticles has acquired particular attention due to its economic feasibility, low toxicity and simplicity of the process. Extracellular synthesis of nanoparticles by bacteria and fungi has been stated to be brought about by enzymes and other reducing agents that may be secreted in the culture medium. The present study was carried out to determine the underlying mechanisms of extracellular silver nanoparticle synthesis by Pseudomonas hibiscicola isolated from the effluent of an electroplating industry in Mumbai. Synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by spectroscopy and electron microscopic techniques. Protein profiling studies were done using Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (1D-SDS PAGE) and subjected to identification by Mass Spectrometry. Characterization studies revealed synthesis of 50 nm nanoparticles of well-defined morphology. Total protein content and SDS PAGE analysis revealed a reduction of total protein content in test (nanoparticles solution) samples when compared to controls (broth supernatant). 45.45% of the proteins involved in the process of nanoparticle synthesis were identified to be oxidoreductases and are thought to be involved in either reduction of metal ions or capping of synthesized nanoparticles.