ABSTRACT
Pathogenic microbes threatens human and environmental health in the recent times. In light of this impending problem, there is another, antibiotics resistance. To this end, other treatment alternatives such as nanoparticles like doped Copper Oxide nanoparticles have been explored in the treatment of bacterial and fungal diseases and infections, and have proven to be clinically effective (Mba and Nweze 2021). Recent investigations by Anu et al., (2020) have shown that doped Copper Oxide nanoparticles have the potential to replace drug resistant Fungi.This study explores the antimicrobial efficacy of manganese-doped copper oxide nanoparticles against Candida Spp., and Penicillium in contaminated water. Different concentrations (0%, 6%, 8%, and 10%) of manganese doped copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using the hydrothermal method. Characterization of their structural and chemical properties was also carried out using the X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). The inhibition percentage was also determined to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of the synthesized nanoparticles. Results showed that optimal inhibition was achieved at 8% doping, 80mg concentration for Candida Spp, 0% doping, 20mg and at 6% doping, 20mg concentration for Penicillium. Furthermore, 8% doping level showed the most inhibition percentages. Structural analysis via X-ray diffraction revealed trends in crystallite size and lattice strain, indicating structural modifications induced by manganese doping. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy characterization highlighted alterations in surface chemistry, potentially affecting nanoparticle-cell interactions. The enhanced antimicrobial activity was attributed to surface modifications, increased reactive oxygen species generation, and disruption of microbial cell structures. Further research is recommended to investigate the underlying mechanisms and optimize nanoparticle design for broader applications.
