A review on photocatalytic, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and other biological activities of phyto-fabricated copper nanoparticles International Journal of Biosciences | IJB (original) (raw)

Since its advent, nanotechnology has become an indispensable area of research and innovation, introducing revolutionary changes in current research areas like engineering, medical sciences, drug discovery and formulations, optoelectronics and biosensors. Metallic nanoparticle synthesis has become a requisite of modern experimentation however, much of the research involves either silver or gold nanoparticles. Considering the fact, it is imperative to explore the potentials of other metallic nanoparticles as well. Current review focuses on exploration of potentials of Copper nanoparticles in various domains of research. The review highlights common synthesis methods of Copper nanoparticle synthesis and the superiority of green route over other approaches. Characterization techniques and multifarious biological potentials of Copper nanoparticles have also been reviewed. Researchers have recognized green synthesis route as the best alternative to traditional methods utilized for synthesizing copper nanoparticles. Green synthesized Copper nanoparticles have also been found to have superior antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, cytotoxic and photocatalytic potentials. As of now, the exact mechanism behind synthesis and biological activities of Copper nanoparticles is not known. Identification of the exact mechanism can revolutionaries the discipline of nanotechnology.