Green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles from leaf extract: A promising antibacterial agent for poultry.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The development of zinc-based antimicrobials has progressed from conventional to nanoparticle (NP) formulations due to their enhanced biological properties. This study evaluates the antibacterial efficacy of green-synthesized zinc oxide NPs (ZnO-NPs) derived from leaf extract against both pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria relevant to poultry health.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a completely randomized design, six treatment groups were tested: Positive control (PC) (tetracycline, 2.5 mg/mL), negative control (NC) (HCl 0.1 N + distilled water), and ZnO-NPs at concentrations of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 mg/mL. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method, measuring inhibition zones against . Typhimurium, , and

RESULTS

The positive control demonstrated the most significant inhibition zones across all bacterial strains. ZnO-NPs exhibited dose-dependent antibacterial activity, with maximum inhibition zones recorded as 18.58 mm for E. , 17.09 mm for S. Typhimurium, and 17.41 mm for at the highest concentration (10 mg/mL). However, the antibacterial activity against was less pronounced, with a maximum inhibition zone of 9.93 mm. These findings indicate selective toxicity of ZnO-NPs, favoring pathogenic over non-pathogenic strains.

CONCLUSION

Green-synthesized ZnO-NPs using leaf extract demonstrate promising antibacterial properties against poultry pathogens. Their selective action highlights potential applications as eco-friendly feed additives to improve poultry health and mitigate pathogenic risks.