In this lab students will become familiar with biosynthesized silver nanoparticles, or bSNP’s. As part of the lesson, students will learn the potential of using biosynthesized silver nanoparticles for use as antimicrobials against antibiotic-resistant bacteria (Escherichia coli in this case). Students will create biosynthesized silver nanoparticles in lab using plant extracts of peppermint, Aloe vera, and geranium to reduce AgNO₃ to metallic silver (Ag⁰). Students will conduct tests to compare bSNP efficacy on streptomycin- and ampicillin-resistant E. coli by comparing the ‘zone of inhibitions’ to those of standard antibiotics.

This lab is designed to introduce students to biosynthesized silver nanoparticles and their medical applications. It is intended to show the antimicrobial properties of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles and their potential applications. Students will conduct both qualitative and quantitative analysis of bSNP efficacy as compared to the use of ampicillin and streptomycin. Students will conduct an activity directly related to leading edge nanotechnology research.

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Michael Falck, Chaska High School, Minnesota and James Marti, University of Minnesota

NSF EEC 1200925 and NSF ECCS 0335765 and ECCS 1626183

Researchers should cite this work as follows:

• Michael Falck, James Marti, NNCI Nano (2020), "Using Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles to kill Antibiotic Resistant E. Coli.," https://nanohub.org/resources/33196.

  BibTex | EndNote

1. antibacterial
2. bacteria
3. biology
4. Biotechnology
5. chemistry
6. high school
7. K-12
8. nano/bio
9. nanoparticles
10. NNCI Educational Materials
11. silver nanoparticles
12. undergraduate level