Abstract
Solvent-free, microwave-assisted synthesis of bionanocomposite (poly(ester-ricinoleamide) (PERA)/nano ZnO) (in-situ synthesized nano ZnO) was carried out by the utilization of Ricinus communis or Castor oil, complying with the principles of "Green Chemistry." Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques confirmed the formation of bionanocomposites. Antifungal activity was examined by MIC 90, disc diffusion assay, growth curve study and proton extrusion measurements. Growth of organisms on solid and liquid media was significantly affected by synthesized compounds at varying concentrations. We also investigated their effect on plasma membrane mediated H+ pumping by various Candida species. Tentative mechanism of action appears to originate from inhibition of plasma membrane ATPase activity that ultimately leads to intracellular acidification and cell death.