Applications of Green Synthesized Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles

One of the most-studied properties of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) is their antimicrobial activity [ 1 ], especially due to their potential use against multi-drug-resistant microorganisms (MDRMs) [ 2 ]. In addition to this, their relatively easy functionalization, which further facilitates their applications and manipulation (e.g., through immobilization), also contributes to the interest in studying and trying to develop functionalized MNPs with enhanced properties. Biosynthesis of MNPs, a green alternative to chemical methods, offers an eco-friendly approach with lower environmental impact [ 3 ]. Extracellular biosynthesis allows efficient one-pot reactions at room temperature, enabling simultaneous functionalization with organic molecules to enhance antimicrobial activity and stability [ 1 ]. Despite these advantages, understanding the mechanisms of biosynthesis and MNP antimicrobial activity remains incomplete.