Myconanotechnology: evaluation of Ag-Cu bimetallic nanoparticles synthesized by Ganoderma aff. australe against pathogens and cancer cells

This study reports the biogenic synthesis of silver–copper (Ag/Cu) bimetallic nanoparticles using an aqueous extract of Ganoderma aff. australe collected in the State of Mexico. Taxonomic identification of the fungus was confirmed through basidiospore morphology. Mycochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, reducing sugars, quinones, and coumarins in the extract, suggesting their involvement as reducing and stabilizing agents in nanoparticle formation. Structural characterization by UV–Vis, FTIR, SEM–EDS, and TEM confirmed the successful synthesis of quasi‑spherical Ag/Cu nanoparticles with an average diameter of 17.15 nm and a composition predominantly of copper (87.84%) with silver (12.16%). Antibacterial assays demonstrated promising inhibitory activity against both Gram‑positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram‑negative (Escherichia coli) strains, with formulation M2‑3‑3 exhibiting the most consistent performance. Cytotoxicity assays (MTT) revealed selective anticancer activity of the nanoparticles, particularly against glioblastoma cell lines (A‑172 and U‑87 MG), while showing reduced cytotoxicity toward non‑cancerous fibroblasts (HDFn and Detroit 551). These findings highlight G. aff. australe‑mediated Ag/Cu nanoparticles as a sustainable and effective platform with dual antibacterial and anticancer potential. The study underscores the relevance of myconanotechnology for developing eco‑friendly nanomaterials with biomedical applications.