Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Fusarium solani isolates from Agricultural Soils in Gorgan, Iran

  ABSTRACT             Background and objectives: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are major nanomaterials with a variety of applications. The synthesis of nanoparticles by conventional methods is challenging and often requires use of hazardous chemicals. Therefore, there is a growing need for development of environmentally and economically friendly processes for the synthesis of nanoparticles. This study aimed at biosynthesis of AgNPs using a filamentous fungus; Fusarium solani.             Methods: Twenty-four Fusarium isolates were found from several soil samples collected from depth of 1-10 cm. All isolates were identified as F. solani based on morphological characteristics. The synthesis of nanoparticles were evaluated after 24, 48, 72 hours of culture. AgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy.             Results: The synthesized AgNps showed maximum absorbance peak at 420 nm after 72 hours. Moreover, most AgNps were spherical with diameter of between 20 and 40 nm.             Conclusion: In this study, we introduced a simple biological process for biosynthesis of AgNPs using F. solani isolates from soil samples. The results indicate that fungi may be suitable for safe and cost-effective production of AgNPs.             Keywords: Fungi; Fusarium; Nanoparticles; Nanotechnology.