Betanin Conjugated Silica Nanoparticles as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy Against Multidrug Resistant Opportunistic Pathogens

Abstract

Betanin (BT), a natural pigment with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties, was explored in combination with silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) to develop a biocompatible formulation with enhanced bioactivity. This study reports the synthesis and characterization of BT-SiNPs using UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM, FTIR, and XRD techniques. The antioxidant activity of BT-SiNPs was evaluated through superoxide and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays, demonstrating significant dose dependent activity. The antimicrobial potential of BT-SiNPs was assessed against major respiratory pathogens, including Salmonella typhi, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli, using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and zone of inhibition assays. The results showed significant antimicrobial efficacy, with an MIC of 50 µg/mL. Molecular docking studies revealed strong interactions between BT and pathogen receptors, suggesting inhibition of quorum sensing and antibiotic resistance mechanisms. In conclusion, BT-SiNPs exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial activity making them potential candidates for therapeutic applications against oxidative stress, respiratory infections, and lung cancer.