Green synthesis and surface functionalization of zinc oxide nanoparticles with glutamine/pluronic F127 for enhanced antimicrobial activity

Abstract

This study presents the stepwise surface functionalization of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) with glutamine (Gln) and Pluronic F127 block copolymer to develop a highly stable, anti-agglomeration biocidal nanoplatform (ZnO@Gln-F127). Comprehensive characterization via FTIR, TEM, and EDX confirmed the sequential modification, revealing a multi-core and single-shell architecture where Gln firmly coordinates to ZnO and anchors the thick F127 polymer matrix via multiple hydrogen bonds. Thermogravimetric analysis quantitatively verified this structural evolution, recording a significant 41.31% organic mass loss. Overcoming the inherent agglomeration of pristine ZnO, the ZnO@Gln-F127 system exhibited superior, concentration-dependent antimicrobial efficacy against Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis and yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The amphiphilic F127 shell provided exceptional colloidal stability through steric hindrance and enhanced microbial interactions, achieving complete eradication of both strains at 1.0 mg/mL. Ultimately, these findings highlight the immense potential of this hierarchical nanostructure for advanced biomedical applications.