Green biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles using Kappaphycus alvarezii biomass extract as a bioreductant and subsequent fungicidal evaluation on Fusarium sp.

• Grant number: 24/21128-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biology
• Principal Investigator: Regildo Márcio Gonçalves da Silva
• Grantee: Felipe Augusto Rigonatto Brandão
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Letras (FCL-ASSIS). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Assis. Assis , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The use of Kappaphycus alvarezii, a seaweed rich in bioactive compounds, is of great scientific and industrial relevance due to its potential for applications in biotechnology and environmental sustainability. The aim of this study is to develop an innovation in the field of metallic nanoparticle (Ag and Fe) synthesis through a green and sustainable process, utilizing the extract of this seaweed as a bioreducing and stabilizing agent. The choice of K. alvarezii seeks to explore the biomass's ability to provide natural compounds for efficient metal ion reduction, resulting in nanoparticles with controlled characteristics. This method, besides being environmentally safe, may produce silver and iron nanoparticles with tailored physicochemical properties for biological applications. In a subsequent stage, the project will investigate the fungicidal potential of these nanoparticles against the phytopathogen Fusarium sp., which is widespread in agricultural crops and responsible for significant production losses. Thus, the study aims not only to innovate in the field of green nanosynthesis but also to offer alternatives for the control of phytopathogenic fungi, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for agricultural management.