Plant Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Punica granatum L. Extract and its Inhibitory Effect on Streptococcus Mutans

Background and Aim: A useful tactic to change membrane permeability, cytoplasmic leakage, and eventual cell death in bacteria is the neutralization of their cell surface potential by nanoscale materials. In this study, pomegranate peel extract was used in an attempt to create biogenic zinc nanoparticles. It is less expensive and uses less hazardous substances than chemical and physical approaches, and is a straightforward substitute for these approaches. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have extensive biological applications. This study was aimed to produce ZnO NPs via a green chemistry approach and analyze their antibacterial capacity. Materials and Methods: ZnO NPs were synthesized by mixing equal volumes of zinc acetate (0.1 M) and pomegranate peel extract. The resulting mixture was heated to 100°C for 180 min and the color change was observed. After several washings of the resulting mixture, ZnO NPs were obtained. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs were characterized using UV-visible spectra, FT-IR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra. The morphology of ZnO NPs was examined using TEM. Results: The study showed ZnO NPs production in an inexpensive and environmentally friendly way. The ZnO NPs showed optimal antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans. When the prepared NPs reacted with eugenol, they showed the ability to improve the effectiveness of temporary dental fillings and supplement the oral health outcomes. Conclusion: The ZnO NPs showed favorable antibacterial activity against S. mutans. Green synthesis of nanomaterials have emerged as a promising alternative due to their properties against the S. mutans responsible for the tooth decay.