The Antibacterial Effects of Curcumin-Silver Nanoparticle and Curcumin-Copper Nanoparticle Loaded Niosomes

Background: The threat of antimicrobial resistance is increasing worldwide. Niosomes are a new drug delivery system that increases the antimicrobial potential of antibiotics. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of niosomes loaded with curcumin-silver nanoparticles (Cur-AgNPs) and curcumin-copper nanoparticles (Cur-CuNPs). Methods: Initially, a unique combination of metal and curcumin nanoparticles was prepared in free and encapsulated forms to investigate the synergistic effects of the two drugs and to evaluate them through a niosomal carrier. Particle size and polydispersity index were measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS), and entrapment efficiency (EE) was measured through indirect centrifugation. The rate of drug release from the loaded niosomes was assessed through in vitro dialysis. Finally, the antibacterial activity of Cur-AgNPs and Cur-CuNPs loaded niosomes on Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were measured. Results: The curcumin-loaded niosomal formulations and the simultaneous combination of Cur-AgNPs and Cur-CuNPs had an optimum particle size of less than 200 nm and uniform dispersion. These formulations also showed high entrapment efficiencies and slow release for more than 72 hours. Conclusion: A significant increase in antibacterial activity was observed when using curcumin in combination with metal nanoparticles loaded in niosomes, indicating that the concomitant use of metal nanoparticles and curcumin had a synergistic effect in inhibiting bacterial growth.