Hybrid nanostructure of seaweed-derived carbon manganese oxide–ZIF67: Unleashing enhanced antifungal efficacy for clinical applications

Introduction: Fungal infections are a growing concern in clinical practice due to increasing resistance to conventional antifungal agents and limited treatment options. Methods: Seaweed-derived carbon was synthesized as a sustainable and permeable substrate. Manganese oxide (MnO 2 ) was incorporated to enhance redox activity and antimicrobial potential. ZIF-67, a cobalt-based metal–organic framework, was added to improve surface area, stability, and drug-loading capacity. Results: The resulting hybrid carbon–MnO 2 –ZIF-67 nanostructure demonstrated enhanced antifungal efficacy, increased surface reactivity, and superior biocompatibility in vitro compared to standard formulations. Conclusions: The study highlights a novel, eco-friendly nanostructure with potential clinical applications in antifungal therapy.