Statistical Design and Analysis for Enhanced Production of Tetracycline‐Conjugated Copper Oxide Nanoparticles with Improved Antimicrobial Properties

Abstract Purpose : Since decades, numerous antibiotics have been used to treat different bacterial illnesses; among these, tetracycline is one of the commonly used antibiotics, which has led to development of bacterial resistance. To tackle this critical issue, we have developed a novel, biocompatible nanodrug that improves the antibacterial activity of tetracycline by conjugating it with copper oxide nanoparticles, thereby addressing the problem of multidrug resistance in bacteria. Methods : In this study, using unipot approach, tetracycline conjugated copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized where tetracycline act as reducing as well as stabilizing agent. These nanoparticles were characterized by different analytical and microscopic technique. For statistical analysis, FFD and CCD model were employed to assess the effect of various parameters (concentration, pH, temperature and time). Results : The synthesis of nanoparticles was confirmed through different techniques. Synthesized nanoparticles exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against various microbes including multi‐drug resistant microbes compared to its individual constituents. DPPH and ABTS assays revealed high antioxidant activity of nanoparticles whereas, biocompatibility was assessed via MTT assay. The drug release profile confirms the sustained release of tetracycline molecules. Conclusions : We have successfully developed tetracycline conjugated copper oxide nanoparticles exhibiting potent antibacterial, antioxidant and biocompatible activity.