INTRODUCTION/

objectivesSilver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are promising antimicrobial agents, but their synthesis often involves toxic reducing agents. To address this, we developed a green synthesis methodology employing an in-situ approach for synthesizing AgNPs within self- -assembled ultrashort peptide hydrogels through photochemical synthesis, eliminating the need for toxic chemicals.

methodsA novel tetrapeptide was designed and synthesized to form hydrogels in aqueous solutions. AgNPs were incorporated into the hydrogel

resultsAmong the peptides synthesized, PHG-2 formed a hydrogel at a 1% w/v concentration in aqueous solution. Characterization using the gel inversion assay, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed uniform nanofibril self-assembly. UV spectroscopy and TEM confirmed the formation of AgNPs within the hydrogel. While the peptide hydrogel exhibited moderate antibacterial activity alone, the AgNP-loaded hydrogel demonstrated synergistic antibacterial effects against methicillin-resistant

conclusionsThis study introduces a novel ultrashort tetrapeptide sequence for developing antibacterial agents that are effective against infected wounds while supporting wound healing. Utilizing in-situ photochemical synthesis, the green synthesis approach provides an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to conventional methods.