Biological Effect of Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Malva parviflora Fruits Suzan Abdullah Al-Audah, Azzah I. Alghamdi, Sumayah I. Alsanie, Ibtisam M. Ababutain, Essam Kotb, Amira H. Alabdalall, Sahar K. Aldosary, Nada F. AlAhmady, Salwa Alhamad, Amnah A. Alaudah, Munirah F. Aldayel, Arwa A. Aldakheel International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025 The search for novel natural resources, such as extracts from algae and plant for use as reductants and capping agents for the synthesis of nanoparticles, may be appealing to medicine and nanotechnology. This study aimed to use Malva parviflora fruit extract as a novel source for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and to evaluate their characterization. The results of biosynthesized AgNP characterization using multiple techniques, such as UV–Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR analysis, and zeta potential (ZP), demonstrated that M. parviflora AgNPs exhibit a peak at 477 nm; possess needle-like and nanorod morphology with diameters ranging from 156.08 to 258.41 nm; contain –OH, C=O, C-C stretching from phenyl groups, and carbohydrates, pyranoid ring, and amide functional groups; and have a zeta potential of −21.2 mV. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of the M. parviflora AgNPs was assessed against two multidrug-resistant strains, including Staphylococcus aureus MRSA and Escherichia coli ESBL, with inhibition zones of 20.33 ± 0.88 mm and 13.33 ± 0.33 mm, respectively. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was 1.56 µg/mL for both. SEM revealed structural damage to the treated bacterial cells, and RAPD-PCR confirmed these genetic alterations. Additionally, M. parviflora AgNPs showed antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.68 mg/mL), 69% protein denaturation inhibition, and cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 breast cancer cells at concentrations above 100 µg/mL. These findings suggest that M. parviflora-based AgNPs are safe and effective for antimicrobial and biomedical applications, such as coatings for implanted medical devices, to prevent biofilm formation and facilitate drug delivery.
Tailoring Al-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles via Scalable High-Energy Ball Milling–Solid-State Reaction: Structural, Optical, and Dielectric Insights for Light-Activated Antimicrobial Defense Against Medical Device Pathogens Zurayfah Al-Shammari, Imen Massoudi, Amani Rached, Ibtisam Ababutain, Azzah Alghamdi, Reem Aldakheel, Kamal Amin, Essam Kotb, Amor Ben Ali Crystals, 2025 This study reports the synthesis of aluminum-doped ZnO nanoparticles (Al-ZnO NPs) via a top-down mechanochemical solid-state reaction (SSR) approach using high-energy ball milling (HEBM) as a rapid, controllable, and efficient method. Al-ZnO samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Significantly, the band gap decreased by 0.215 eV when transitioning from pure ZnO to 9 wt.% Al-doped ZnO (Al-ZnO9). TEM analysis showed that after 4 h of milling at 1000 rpm, the particle size was reduced to 59 nm, exhibiting a spherical morphology crucial for enhanced bioactivity. The antimicrobial properties of the Al-ZnO NPs were evaluated using the well diffusion method against various pathogenic microorganisms, with a particular focus on Staph. aureus ATCC 29213 and Staph. epidermidis ATCC 12228, given their clinical significance as common pathogens in infections related to medical implants and prosthetics. Al-ZnO9 demonstrated superior antibacterial performance, producing inhibition zones of 13 mm and 15 mm against Staph. aureus and Staph. epidermidis, respectively. Moreover, exposure to visible light further amplified the antimicrobial activity. This research underscores the potential for the scalable production of Al-ZnO NPs, presenting a promising solution for addressing infections linked to implanted medical devices.
Production, Biochemical Characterization, and Application of Laccase from Halophilic Curvularia lunata MLK46 Recovered from Mangrove Rhizosphere Malak Alshammary, Essam Kotb, Ibtisam M. Ababutain, Amira H. Alabdalall, Sumayh A. Aldakeel, Sumayah I. Alsanie, Salwa Alhamad, Hussah Alshwyeh, Ahmed M. Albarrag Biology, 2025 Laccase production was evaluated in 108 fungal isolates recovered from the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia, a critical element in environmental biodegradation and biotransformation. The most active isolate was identified as Curvularia lunata MLK46 (GenBank accession no. PQ100161). It exhibited maximal productivity at pH 6.5, 30 °C, and incubation for 5 d, with 1% sodium nitrate and 1% galactose as the preferred nitrogen and carbon sources, respectively. Productivity was enhanced by NaCl, CuSO4, and FeCl3 supplementation, with a maximum at 0.3 mM, 0.2 mM, and 61.7 mM concentrations, respectively. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) for the purified enzyme through diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Sepharose chromatography revealed a prominent band at 71.1 kDa with maximum activity at pH 6 and stability at pH 6–9. Furthermore, it was optimally active at 50 °C and thermally stable at 50–80 °C with a half-life time (T1/2) of 333.7 min to 80.6 min, respectively. Its activity was also enhanced by many metallic ions, especially Fe3+ ions; however, it was inhibited by Hg2+ and Ag+ ions. The enzyme demonstrated significant degradation of specific substrates such as 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), guaiacol, o-dianisidine, and 2,6-dichlorophenol, with a kinetic efficiency constant which ranged from 40.95 mM−1 s−1 to 238.20 mM−1 s−1. UV spectrophotometry confirmed efficient oxidation peaks by electron transition against guaiacol (at 300 nm), o-dianisidine (at 480 nm), ABTS (at 420 nm), and 2,6-dichlorophenol (at 600 nm). The results collectively demonstrate the potential of laccase from C. lunata MLK46 as a promising agent for the effective biodegradation of several industrial pollutants under extreme conditions.
HEBM-assisted SSR synthesis of copper-doped ZnO nanocrystalline semiconductors: physical properties, dielectric behavior and enhanced antimicrobial efficacy against clinically relevant pathogens Zurayfah Al-Shammari, Imen Massoudi, Amani Rached, Ibtisam Ababutain, Azzah Ibrahim Alghamdi, Norah Abdullah Algarou, Kamal Adel Amin, Essam Kotb, Amor Ben Ali Materials Technology, 2025 This study explores copper-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Cu–ZnO NPs) synthesized via high-energy ball milling–assisted solid-state reaction, optimizing particle size, doping (3–9 wt.% Cu), medium state (solid/liquid), and visible-light activation for antimicrobial efficacy. Structural analysis (XRD, SEM, TEM/EDS) confirmed hexagonal wurtzite ZnO with Cu²⁺ lattice integration, uniform dopant distribution, and particle refinement to ~50 nm post-milling. Bandgap reduction (0.13 eV) enhanced charge mobility and ROS generation. Solid-state NPs exhibited superior antimicrobial activity, achieving inhibition zones of 14.8 mm (Staphylococcus aureus) and 19.7 mm (Staphylococcus epidermidis), outperforming liquid-phase results (p < 0.05). Light activation amplified ROS production, elevating Candida albicans inhibition to 23.0 mm. Size reduction enabled unprecedented inhibition of gram-negative Klebsiella oxytoca (12.4 mm). The synergy of Cu doping, particle refinement, and light activation underscores Cu–ZnO NPs as scalable, tunable antimicrobial agents against resistant pathogens, with potential applications in clinical and industrial settings.
Biosynthesis of iron nanoparticles by Westerdykella dispersa and their application in synthetic dye decolorization A. M. Al-Slamah, H. Chakroun, I. M. Ababutain, S. S. Aljameel, A. H. Alabdalall, S. A. Aldakeel, T. M. Alfassam, A. M. Albarrag, S. I. Alsanie, A. I. Alghamdi, I. Hammami Brazilian Journal of Biology, 2025 This study reports, for the first time, the green synthesis of iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) using Westerdykella dispersa (AmlDm3), a fungal species not previously associated with FeNP production. The isolate, recovered from wastewater-contaminated sites in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, was identified through morphological examination and ITS-based phylogenetic analysis. UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed nanoparticle formation with a characteristic absorption peak at 240 nm. SEM analysis revealed predominantly spherical nanoparticles, while zeta potential measurements indicated moderate colloidal stability (–20.2 mV). FTIR spectra demonstrated the presence of Fe–O, COO−, C–O, and amide functional groups, suggesting stabilization by fungal biomolecules. EDX analysis further verified the elemental composition of iron-based nanoparticles. The synthesized FeNPs exhibited rapid catalytic performance, achieving 95.09 ± 0.08% decolorization of malachite green within 5 min at 0.2 mg/mL, with a maximum removal efficiency of 96.72 ± 0.03% after 24 h. Methyl violet and methylene blue showed decolorization efficiencies up to ~85%, whereas safranin reached ~69%. Effective dye removal was also maintained under mixed-dye conditions and at low nanoparticle dosages. No antimicrobial activity was observed. Overall, W. dispersa-mediated FeNPs represent a rapid, efficient, and sustainable nanobiotechnological platform for environmentally friendly wastewater remediation.
Anticandidal Activity of a Siderophore from Marine Endophyte Pseudomonas aeruginosa Mgrv7 Essam Kotb, Amira H. Al-Abdalall, Ibtisam Ababutain, Nada F. AlAhmady, Sahar Aldossary, Eida Alkhaldi, Azzah I. Alghamdi, Hind A. S. Alzahrani, Mashael A. Almuhawish, Moudhi N. Alshammary, Asmaa A. Ahmed Antibiotics, 2024 An endophytic symbiont P. aeruginosa-producing anticandidal siderophore was recovered from mangrove leaves for the first time. Production was optimal in a succinate medium supplemented with 0.4% citric acid and 15 µM iron at pH 7 and 35 °C after 60 h of fermentation. UV spectra of the acidic preparation after purification with Amberlite XAD-4 resin gave a peak at 400 nm, while the neutralized form gave a peak at 360 nm. A prominent peak with RP-HPLC was obtained at RT 18.95 min, confirming its homogeneity. It was pH stable at 5.0–9.5 and thermally stable at elevated temperatures, which encourages the possibility of its application in extreme environments. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) against Candida spp. Were in the range of 128 µg/mL and lower. It enhanced the intracellular iron accumulation with 3.2–4.2-fold (as judged by atomic absorption spectrometry) with a subsequent increase in the intracellular antioxidative enzymes SOD and CAT. Furthermore, the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration due to cellular lipid peroxidation increased to 3.8-fold and 7.3-fold in C. albicans and C. tropicalis, respectively. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) confirmed cellular damage in the form of roughness, malformation, and production of defensive exopolysaccharides and/or proteins after exposure to siderophore. In conclusion, this anticandidal siderophore may be a promising biocontrol, nonpolluting agent against waterborne pathogens and pathogens of the skin. It indirectly kills Candida spp. by ferroptosis and mediation of hyperaccumulation of iron rather than directly attacking the cell targets, which triggers the activation of antioxidative enzymes.
Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Copper and Cobalt Complexes for Antimicrobial Potential Applications S. Al-Jameel, I. Ababutain, Azzah I Alghamdi, Amor Ben-Ali, Aml H Al-Nasir, Asayel H Alqhtani, Latifah K Aldewely, Mariam M Alhassan, Reem E Bakhurji, Wasan M AlGhamdi, Rana A Alzahrani, Israa A Alrabghi Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry, 2024 Background/Aims: The naturally occurring phenolic chemical curcumin (CUR), which was derived from the Curcuma longa plant, has a variety of biological actions, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. Curcumin is known for its restricted bioavailability due to its hydrophobicity, poor intestinal absorption, and quick metabolism. To boost the biological effects of these bioactive molecules, it is necessary to raise both their bioavailability and their solubility in water. Aim: The aim of this study is to synthesize and characterize hybrid organic-inorganic complexes of copper and cobalt, and to evaluate their antimicrobial potential against a range of pathogenic microorganisms. Methods: The synthesis of metal curcumin complexes (Cu-CUR and Co-CUR) was achieved by mixing curcumin with copper acetate monohydrate. The solid residue was isolated, filtered, and dried in an oven. X-ray diffraction analysis was used to identify the structure and phase of the prepared samples. FTIR spectra were recorded using a Shimadzu 2200 module. The antimicrobial activity of the prepared complexes was evaluated against four bacterial strains and two Candida species. The chemical materials were dissolved in DMSO to a final concentration of 20%, and the plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. The results showed that the prepared complexes had antimicrobial activity against the tested microorganisms. Results: The study compared the Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of prepared copper and cobalt complexes to pure curcumin, revealing new, isostructural complexes. The FTIR analysis showed that the Cu-CUR and Co-CUR complexes varied in their inhibitory effect against microorganisms, with Co-CUR being more effective. The results are consistent with previous studies showing the cobalt-curcumin complex was effective against various bacterial genera, with inhibition activity varying depending on the species and strains of microorganisms. Conclusion: Copper and cobalt curcumin complexes, synthesized at room temperature, exhibit high crystallinity and antimicrobial activity. Co-CUR, with its superior antibacterial potential, outperforms pure curcumin in inhibiting microbes. Further investigation is needed to understand their interaction mechanisms with bacteria and fungi.
Screening for chitin degrading bacteria in the environment of Saudi Arabia and characterization of the most potent chitinase from Streptomyces variabilis Am1 Essam Kotb, Amira H. Alabdalall, Azzah I. Alghamdi, Ibtisam M. Ababutain, Sumayh A. Aldakeel, Safa K. Al-Zuwaid, Batool M. Algarudi, Sakina M. Algarudi, Asmaa A. Ahmed, Ahmed M. Albarrag Scientific Reports, 2023 Forty-six promising chitinolytic isolates were recovered during a screening for chitinolytic bacteria in the environment of Saudi Arabia. The top three isolates belonged to the genus Streptomyces. Streptomyces variabilis Am1 was able to excrete the highest amount of chitinases, reaching the maximum at 84 h with 0.5% yeast extract and nitrogen source and 2% galactose as a carbon source. Purification of chitinase by DEAE-Cellulose and Sephadex G75 improved the specific activity to 18.6-fold and the recovery to 23.8% and showed a mass at 56 kDa. The optimal catalysis of the purified chitinase was at 40 °C and pH 8 with high thermostability and pH stability as reflected by a midpoint temperature value of 66.6 °C and stability at pH 4–9. The protein reagents SDS, EDTA, and EGTA significantly inhibited the enzyme and the EDTA-chelated chitinase restored its activity after the addition of Fe2+ ions suggesting a metallo-chitinase type with ferric ions as cofactors. Chitinase exerted high antifungal activity against some phytopathogenic fungi. Interestingly, the tested Streptomyces were able to produce chitosan nanocubes along with chitosan from chitin degradation which may be an additional power in their antifungal activity in nature. This work also reveals the importance of unexplored environments as a pool of promising microorganisms with biotechnological applications.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Phthalazinone Derivatives with Biological Activity and In Silico Antiproliferative Studies Samar A. Abubshait, Haya A. Abubshait, Rasha Almalih, Mohamed S. Gomaa, Muhammad Nawaz, Ibtisam M. Ababutain, Azzah I. Alghamdi Chemistryselect, 2022 Abstract Several nitrogen heterocycles are considered as privileged scaffolds in drug discovery and are present in several drugs with diverse biological activities. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of phthalazinone derivatives by using a green synthesis protocol under microwave irradiation. The reduced reaction time and high yield are some of the advantages that render this procedure a greener alternative to conventional chemical synthesis. The structures of all new derivatives were confirmed by spectral analysis. Synthesized derivatives show an effective antimicrobial effect. These compounds were also screened for their in vitro anticancer activity against colon cancer cell line (HCT116). Among the synthesized derivatives are exhibited the highest anticancer activity with IC 50 of 28.97±0.11, 66.25±0.14 and 76.04±0.09 μM respectively. The antiproliferative activity was supported by molecular docking studies that showed that phthalazinone derivatives would potentially act through inhibition of PARP. The simulation studies substantiated the biological results as an active compounds in term of binding interactions and scores.
Degradation of 2,6-dicholorophenol by Trichoderma longibraciatum Isolated from an industrial Soil Sample in Dammam, Saudi Arabia Amira H. Alabdalall, Fatimah A. Aldakheel, Ibtisam M. Ababutain, Hanen Chakroun, Azzah I. Alghamdi, Ines Hammami, Sahar K. Al Dosary, Tamer E. Youssef, Ahmed M. Albarrag, Sumayh A. Aldakeel, Rawan Aldughaish, Nada Al Qurin, Hesham M. ElKomy Scientific Reports, 2022 2,6-Dichlorophenol (2,6-DCP) is an aromatic compound with industrial importance in making insecticides, herbicides, and other organic compounds. However, it poses serious health and ecological problems. Microbial degradation of 2,6-DCP has been widely applied due to its effectiveness and eco-friendly characteristics. In this study, Trichoderma longibraciatum was isolated from an industrial soil sample in Dammam, Saudi Arabia using the enrichment method of mineral salt's medium (MSM) amended with 2,6-DCP. Morphological and molecular identification (using the internal transcribed spacer rRNA gene sequencing) of the 2,6-DCP tolerating fungal isolate were charactraized. The fungal isolate has demonstrated a tolerance to 2,6-DCP up to 300 mg/L. Mycelial growth and fungal sporulation were reduced with increasing 2,6-DCP concentrations up to 96 h incubation period. However, after 168 h incubation period, the fungal isolate recorded maximum growth at all the tested 2,6-DCP concentrations up to 150 mg/L. Carboxy methyl cellulase production by tested fungus was decreased by increasing 2,6-DCP concentration up to 75 mg/L. The biodegradation pattern of 2,6-DCP in GM liquid medium using GC–mass analysis as well as the degradation pathway was presented. This study provides a promising fungal isolate that could be used in the bioremediation process for chlorinated phenols in soil.
Phytochemical analysis and antibacterial activity of Vitex agnus-castus L. Leaf extracts against clinical isolates Asia Life Sciences, 2018
Comparing the antibacterial activity and phytochemical components of three most commonly used oleo-gum-resin types in Saudi Arabia Journal of Food Agriculture and Environment, 2017
Petroleum oil biodegradation potential of some isolated bacteria from Saudi Arabia Journal of Food Agriculture and Environment, 2017
