Optimization of Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles via Aqueous Synthesis and Evaluation of Antimicrobial Potential Against Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the synthesis and antimicrobial properties of cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co3O4 NPs). Due to their small size and magnetic characteristics, nanoparticles show promise across applications like biomedical uses. Co3O4 NPs were synthesized using a green chemistry method involving cobalt chloride, trisodium citrate, and leaf extract from Phytolacca dodecandra. X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to characterize the crystalline structure and functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a cubic spinel structure with porous morphology. Antimicrobial efficacy against clinically isolated Staphylococcus aureus and S. haemolyticus was determined using disc diffusion and well diffusion assays. Minimum inhibitory concentration values indicated S. haemolyticus was more susceptible to Co3O4 NPs than S. aureus. Optimization of nanoparticle synthesis and examination of antibacterial mechanisms against drug-resistant pathogens can contribute to new therapeutic modalities. Understanding interactions between nanomaterials and biological systems also supports customized applications in fields like targeted drug delivery.