Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Natural Extracts with Proven Antioxidant Activity

Anti-Candida activity and biocompatibility of silver nanoparticles associated with denture glaze: a new approach to the management of denture stomatitis

The association of silver nanoparticles (AgNps) to sealant agent Palaseal® can be a promising alternative for complete denture wearers who may develop denture stomatitis (DS). The study aimed to evaluate the anti-Candida and biocompatible potential of silver nanoparticles synthesized by three routes associated with denture glaze to prevent and/or treat oral candidiasis. Surface acrylic resin specimens were treated with different associations of glaze with AgNps (VER+AgUV, VER+AgTurk and VER+AgGm). As controls, specimens were treated with glaze+nystatin (VER+Nyst), glaze only (VER) or submerged in PBS (PBS). Afterwards, Candida albicans biofilm was developed for 24 h, 15 d and 30 d. Subsequently, the biofilm was quantified by CFU/mL, XTT assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Fibroblasts were submitted to conditioned medium with the same associations for 24, 48 and 72 h and LIVE/DEAD® viability test was carried out. Regardless of the period, there was a significant reduction (p < 0.01) of viable fungal cells load, as well as inhibition of fungal metabolic activity, in specimens treated with glaze+AgNps associations, compared to VER and PBS. The anti-Candida effects of the associations were similar to the VER+Nyst group, with emphasis on VER+AgGm, which showed the highest percentage values of non-viable fungal cells maintained over time. The associations did not prove toxicity to fibroblasts. The AgNps exerted antimicrobial activity against C. albicans biofilms and are biocompatible. The most effective results were achieved with the association of glaze+silver nanoparticles synthesized by the green chemistry method (AgGm), proving to be an innovative alternative in the management of DS.

Antioxidant and Antiaging Activity of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. Ethyl Acetate Fraction in Caenorhabditis elegans

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

In aerobic organisms, such as humans, oxygen radicals are inevitably produced. To counteract oxidation, the body generates antioxidant substances that suppress free radicals. However, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase due to aging and lifestyle factors, leading to exposure to various diseases. While synthetic antioxidants offer advantages like high stability, low cost, and availability, their safety remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and antiaging activities of Houttuynia cordata (HC), which is rich in flavonoids and has excellent antioxidant properties, using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model.

METHODS

Extraction and fractionation of HC were performed to evaluate antioxidant activities (DPPH, ABTS, superoxide radical scavenging activity) and antiaging effects (lifespan). The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) with the highest activity was selected for further investigation.

RESULTS

The EAF of HC exhibited high levels of polyphenols and flavonoids, presenting the highest DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide radical scavenging activities. This fraction increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes in nematodes in a concentration-dependent manner and provided resistance to oxidative stress, reducing ROS accumulation. Additionally, the fraction enhanced the lifespan of nematodes, improved resistance to heat stress, increased survival rates, and decreased the accumulation of aging pigments (lipofuscin). The expression of daf-2, daf-16, and sir-2.1, proteins directly involved in nematode aging, was confirmed. Liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry identified quercitrin in the HC extract, which may contribute to its antioxidant and antiaging effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The EAF of HC demonstrates significant potential for influencing antioxidant and antiaging, as evidenced by functional investigations using C. elegans.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles (CM-AgNPs) from the Root of Chuanminshen for Improving the Cytotoxicity Effect in Cancer Cells with Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities

The unique properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), such as size, surface charge, and the ability to release silver ions, contribute to DNA damage, inducing of oxidative stress, and apoptosis in cancer cells. Thus, the potential application of AgNPs in the field of biomedicine, and cancer therapy are rapidly increasing day by day. Therefore, in this study, AgNPs were synthesized by extract of Chuanminshen violaceum, and then the synthesized CM-AgNPs were fully characterized. The biological activity of CM-AgNPs was investigated for antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. The cytotoxic activity of CM-AgNPs was tested for various kinds of cancer cells including MKN45 gastric cancer cells, HCT116 human colon cancer cells, A549 human lung cancer cells, and HepG2 liver cancer cells. Among these cancer cells, the induced apoptosis activity of CM-AgNPs on HCT116 cancer cells was better and was used for further investigation. Besides, the CM-AgNPs exhibited great antioxidant activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) with 50% free radical scavenging activity, and CM-AgNPs also showed a significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Thus, our pilot data demonstrated that the green synthesis of CM-AgNPs would be considered a good candidate for the treatment of HCT116 cancer cells, with its strong antioxidant activity and antibacterial effects.

Eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles against mosquitoes: Pesticidal impact and indispensable biosafety assessment

The emergence of nanotechnology has opened new avenues for enhancing pest control strategies through the development of nanopesticides. Green-fabricated nanoparticles, while promising due to their eco-friendly synthesis methods, may still pose risks to biodiversity and ecosystem stability. The potential toxic effects of nanomaterials on ecosystems and human health raise important questions about their real-world application. Understanding the dose-response relationships of nanopesticides, both in terms of pest control efficacy and non-target organism safety, is crucial for ensuring their sustainable use in agricultural settings. This review delves into the complexities of silver nanopesticides, exploring their interactions with arthropod species, modes of action, and underlying mechanisms of toxicity. It discusses critical issues concerning the emergence of silver nanopesticides, spanning their mosquitocidal efficacy to environmental impact and safety considerations. While nano‑silver has shown promise in targeting insect pests, there is a lack of systematic research comparing its effects on different arthropod subclasses. Moreover, factors influencing nanotoxicity, such as nanoparticle size, charge, and surface chemistry, require further investigation to optimize the design of eco-safe nanoparticles for pest control. By elucidating the mechanisms by which nanoparticles interact with pests and non-target organisms, we can enhance the specificity and effectiveness of nanopesticides while minimizing unintended ecological consequences.

Comprehensive Analysis of the Potential Toxicity of Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Medical Applications: Cellular Mechanisms and Systemic Effects

Owing to recent advancements in nanotechnology, magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs), particularly magnetite (Fe3O4) and maghemite (γ-Fe2O3), are currently widely employed in the field of medicine. These MNPs, characterized by their large specific surface area, potential for diverse functionalization, and magnetic properties, have found application in various medical domains, including tumor imaging (MRI), radiolabelling, internal radiotherapy, hyperthermia, gene therapy, drug delivery, and theranostics. However, ensuring the non-toxicity of MNPs when employed in medical practices is paramount. Thus, ongoing research endeavors are essential to comprehensively understand and address potential toxicological implications associated with their usage. This review aims to present the latest research and findings on assessing the potential toxicity of magnetic nanoparticles. It meticulously delineates the primary mechanisms of MNP toxicity at the cellular level, encompassing oxidative stress, genotoxic effects, disruption of the cytoskeleton, cell membrane perturbation, alterations in the cell cycle, dysregulation of gene expression, inflammatory response, disturbance in ion homeostasis, and interference with cell migration and mobility. Furthermore, the review expounds upon the potential impact of MNPs on various organs and systems, including the brain and nervous system, heart and circulatory system, liver, spleen, lymph nodes, skin, urinary, and reproductive systems.

Immunomodulatory Activity and Inhibitory Effects of Viscum album on Cancer Cells, Its Safety Profiles and Recent Nanotechnology Development

Viscum album has been employed traditionally to treat various ailments including as add-on therapy for cancer treatment. V. album formulations have been employed as adjuvants in cancer treatment due to their immunomodulatory activities as well as to alleviate the side effects of conventional cancer therapies. The present review provides updated information from the past 10 years on the immunomodulatory activity and inhibitory effects of V. album on cancer cells, its safety profile, and recent nanotechnology development. V. album extracts and their bioactive phytochemicals, particularly lectins, viscotoxins, and polyphenols, have demonstrated immunomodulatory activity and inhibitory effects against various types of cancer, with low cytotoxicity and side effects, in experimental studies and demonstrated promising anticancer activity in clinical studies in cancer patients. V. album extracts have been shown to enhance immune function by promoting cytokine secretion and inducing both innate and adaptive immune responses, which can help improve immune surveillance against cancer cells. The development of V. album nanoparticles has boosted their biological activities, including inhibitory activity on cancer cells, and could possibly reduce undesired side effects of the plant. Further prospective studies on the plant as a source of new medicinal agents for use as an adjuvant in the treatment of cancer must be performed to provide sufficient efficacy and safety data.

Application of Response Surface Methodology to Design and Optimize Purification of Acetone or Aqueous Acetone Extracts of Hop Cones (Humulus lupulus L.) Using Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Xanthohumol Isolation

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are an ideal sorbent for magnetic dispersion extraction due to their superparamagnetic properties and developed and active surface. This work aims to use IONPs, obtained by chemical co-precipitation, to purify 100% acetone and 50% acetone extracts from hop cones (Humulus lupulus L.) obtained by ultrasonic-assisted solvent extraction. The extracts were purified from bitter acids (i.e., humulones, lupulones) to isolate xanthohumol. The sorption conditions were optimized depending on the composition of the extraction mixture, specifically the mass of IONPs and the time needed to achieve effective sorption using response surface methodology (RSM). An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to assess the adequacy of the developed model, and a good agreement was found between the experimental data and the proposed model. The polynomial equation describing the model is highly significant (p < 0.05), with a precision of Adeq (above 4). This indicates the usefulness of the polynomial regression model for prediction in experimental design. The final products of the purification for 100% acetone extracts and 50% acetone contain 40.58 ± 2.84 µg mL-1 and 57.64 ± 0.83 µg mL-1 of xanthohumol, respectively. The use of 50% acetone extract provides more favorable conditions due to the smaller amount of nanoparticles required for extract purification and a higher recovery of xanthohumol. The development of a reliable multivariate model allowed for the optimization of the extract purification process, resulting in high-purity xanthohumol from natural sources.

Organic acid-fractionated lignin silver nanoparticles: Antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant characteristics

Bioactive substances are utilized to treat a variety of diseases. Green lignin-mediated silver nanoparticles (L-Ag-NPs) have significant promise as a building block in the production of bio-renovation materials. The work optimized organic acid extraction to remove lignin from residual fermented hybrid Napier grass byproducts. We subsequently produced L-Ag-NPs. FTIR, XRD, DLS, and STEM characterized the sample. L-Ag-NPs were tested for antioxidant activity with the DPPH, DMPD, FRAP, and ABTS assays, as well as antibacterial activities. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using four pathogenic bacteria (Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli). In contrast, cytotoxicity and ROS production assays were carried out using the HeLa cell line. The findings showed that L-Ag-NPs had high antioxidant efficiency. For each bacteria isolate, the antimicrobial activity showed favorable growth inhibition, with significant variations in L-Ag-NPs. L-Ag-NPs were reported to have an IC50 of 43.61 g/mL in the cytotoxicity test, and a significant increase in ROS generation was seen. In conclusion, L-Ag NPs have an excellent prospect in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries and can be a dependable and environmentally safe material for their potential use.

Exploring the Potential of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized from Dictyota bartayresiana and its Biological Applications

The present study validates the impact of nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs) biosynthesized from the brown seaweed Dictyota bartayresiana (DB) and its biological applications. The phytochemicals analyzed in the seaweed extract served as a reducing, capping or stabilizing agent in the formation of nanoparticles. UV visible spectrum of nickel oxide nanoparticles synthesized from DB (DB-NiONPs) represented a prominent peak at 392 nm which validates its formation. Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) showcased the presence of functional groups in the biomolecules which aids in the stabilization of DB-NiONPs. The X-ray diffractometry (XRD) revealed the crystalline nature of DB-NiONPs and the particle size was calculated as 18.26 nm. The Scanning electron microscope (SEM) illustrates the irregularly shaped DB-NiONPs and the desired elements were depicted in energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectrum which confirms the purity of DB-NiONPs. The DB-NiONPs efficiently decolorised the Black B133 (BB133) dye to 86% in 25 min. The data of adsorption studies well fitted into Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second order kinetic model. The thermodynamic study substantiated the spontaneous, feasible and endothermic process of adsorption. DB-NiONPs revealed enhanced antimicrobial, larvicidal and nematicidal activities against the selected microbes, larva of Culex pipens and juveniles of Meloidogyne incognita respectively. The phytotoxicity studies revealed the DB-NiONPs had a positive impact on the germination and growth of green gram seedlings.

Differential Impact of Zinc Salt Precursors on Physiognomies, Anticancerous, and Antibacterial Activities of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are enormously popular semi-conductor metal oxides with diverse applications in every field of science. Many physical and chemical methods applied for the synthesis of ZnONPs are being rejected due to their environmental hazards. Therefore, ZnONPs synthesized from plant extracts are steered as eco-friendly showing more biocompatibility and biodegradability. Additionally, various synthesis conditions such as the type of precursor salt also play a role in influencing the physicochemical and biological properties of ZnONPs. In this study, green synthesis of ZnONPs from Acacia nilotica was carried out using zinc acetate (ZA-AN-ZNPs), zinc nitrate (ZN-AN-ZNPs), and zinc sulfate (ZS-AN-ZNPs) precursor salts. Surprisingly, characterization of ZnONPs using UV-visible spectroscopy, TEM, XRD, and EDX revealed the important role precursor salts played in influencing the size and shape of ZnONPs, i.e., 20-23 nm spherical (ZA-AN-ZNPs), 55-59 nm triangular (ZN-AN-ZNPs), and 94-97 nm nano-flowers (ZS-AN-ZNPs). FTIR analysis showed the involvement of alkaloids, alcohols, carboxylic acid, and phenolic compounds present in Acacia nilotica extract during the synthesis process. Since different precursor salts showed different morphology of ZnONPs, their biological activities were also variable. ZN-AN-ZNPs showed the highest cytotoxicity towards HepG2 cells with the lowest cell viability (28.92 ± 0.99%), highest ROS/RNS production (3425.3 ± 184.58 relative DHR123 fluorescence), and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (1645.2 ± 32.12 relative fluorescence unit) as well as induced significant caspase-3 gene expression. In addition to this, studying the zone of inhibitions and minimum bactericidal and inhibitory concentrations of ZnONPs showed their exceptional potential as antibacterial agents. At MIC as low as 8 µg/mL, ZA-AN-ZNPs and ZN-AN-ZNPs exhibited significant bactericidal activities against human pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae and Listeria monocytogenes, respectively. Furthermore, alkaline phosphatase, DNA/RNA leakage, and phosphate ion leakage studies revealed that a damage to the bacterial cell membrane and cell wall is involved in mediating the antibacterial effects of ZnONPs.

Synthesis and Characterization of Chemically and Green-Synthesized Silver Oxide Particles for Evaluation of Antiviral and Anticancer Activity

Silver oxide (Ag2O) particles are wonderful candidates due to their unique properties, and their use in a wide range of research, industrial and biomedical applications is rapidly increasing. This makes it fundamental to develop simple, environmentally friendly methods with possible scaling. Herein, sodium borohydride and Datura innoxia leaf extract were applied as chemical and biological stabilizing and reducing agents to develop Ag2O particles. The primary aim was to evaluate the anticancer and antiviral activity of Ag2O particles prepared via two methods. XRD, UV-visible and SEM analyses were used to examine the crystallite structure, optical properties and morphology, respectively. The resulting green-synthesized Ag2O particles exhibited small size, spherically agglomerated shape, and high anticancer and antiviral activities compared to chemically synthesized Ag2O particles. The MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium-bromide) assay of green-synthesized Ag2O particles showed high anticancer activity against MCF-7 cells with IC50 = 17.908 µg/mL compared to chemically synthesized Ag2O particles with IC50 = 23.856 µg/mL. The antiviral activity of green-synthesized Ag2O particles and chemically synthesized Ag2O particles was also evaluated by a plaque-forming assay, and green-synthesized Ag2O particles showed higher antiviral ability with IC50 = 0.618 µg/mL as compared to chemically synthesized Ag2O particles with IC50 = 6.129 µg/mL. We propose the use of green-synthesized Ag2O particles in cancer treatment and drug delivery.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Croton urucurana and their toxicity in freshwater snail species Biomphalaria glabrata

Green silver nanoparticles (G-Ag NPs) have contributed to the development of ecological technologies with low environmental impact and safer for human health, as well as demonstrating potential for the control of vectors and intermediate hosts. However, knowledge about its toxicity in the early stages of gastropod development remains scarce. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the toxicity of G-Ag NPs synthesized from Croton urucurana leaf extracts in snail species Biomphalaria glabrata, which is an intermediate host for Schistosoma mansoni parasite. G-Ag NPs were synthesized using two types of plant extracts (aqueous and hydroethanolic) and characterized using multiple techniques. Bioassays focused on investigating G-Ag NPs and plant extracts were carried out with embryos and newly hatched snails, for 144 h and 96 h, respectively; toxicity was analyzed based on mortality, hatching, development inhibition, and morphological changes. Results have shown that both G-Ag NPs were more toxic to embryos and newly hatched snails than the investigated plant extracts. G-Ag NPs deriving from aqueous extract have higher molluscicidal activity than those deriving from hydroethanolic extract. Both G-Ag NPs induced mortality, hatching delay, development inhibition, and morphological changes (i.e., hydropic embryos), indicating their molluscicidal activities. Moreover, embryos were more sensitive to G-Ag NPs than newly hatched snails. Thus, the toxicity of G-Ag NPs to freshwater snails depends on the type of extracts and the snail's developmental stages. These findings can contribute to the development of green nanobiotechnologies applicable to control snails of medical importance.

Superior In Vivo Wound-Healing Activity of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles with Nepeta cataria (Catnip) on Excision Wound Model in Rat

Silver nanoparticles were biosynthesized with Nepeta cataria plant extract. It was determined that the synthesized Nc-AgNPs gave a strong absorbance peak at 438 nm wavelength in the UV-vis spectrophotometer. SEM and TEM analyses of Nc-AgNPs showed that the synthesized nanoparticles had a spherical morphology. Based on XRD analysis, the average crystallite size of Nc-AgNPs was calculated at 15.74 nm. At the same time, EDS spectrum analysis exhibited dominant emission energy at 3 keV, indicative of Nc-AgNPs. Nc-AgNPs showed an inhibition zone of 12 nm in gram-negative Escherichia coli, 10 nm in gram-positive Enterococcus faecalis, and 11 nm in Staphylococcus aureus. Nc-AgNPs showed high antioxidant properties, with 63% at 5000 μg/mL. The wound-healing properties of Nc-AgNPs were evaluated in vivo in wound models created in a total of 20 Wistar albino male rats, divided into four groups. After 10 days of treatment, the highest wound closure rate was seen in the Nc-AgNP + Vaseline (Group IV) treatment group, at 94%. It was observed that Nc-AgNP + Vaseline nanoformulation significantly increased wound healing, similar to Silverdin®, and Vaseline alone supported healing but did not result in complete closure. Histopathological examination revealed an increase in mature Type 1 collagen in Group IV and positive control (Group II), with better collagen maturation in vehicle control (Group III) compared to negative control (Group I). Immunohistochemical analysis showed complete epithelialization in Group IV and Group II, with distinct cytokeratin expressions, while Group III exhibited mild expressions.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticle using pollen extract from Tetragonisca angustula a stingless bee

This study explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a methanolic extract of fermented pollen from Tetragonisca angustula, a species of stingless bees. The AgNPs exhibit spherical morphology, low charge values, and suspension stability, with their unique composition attributed to elements from the pollen extract. Antioxidant assays show comparable activity between the pollen extract and AgNPs, emphasizing the retention of antioxidant effects. The synthesized AgNPs demonstrate antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria, highlighting their potential in combating bacterial resistance. The AgNPs exhibit no toxic effects on Drosophila melanogaster and even enhance the hatching rate of eggs. The study underscores the innovative use of stingless bee pollen extract in green synthesis, offering insights into the varied applications of AgNPs in biomedicine.

An Eco-friendly Approach to ZnO NP Synthesis Using Citrus reticulata Blanco Peel/Extract: Characterization and Antibacterial and Photocatalytic Activity

Emission of greenhouse gases and infectious diseases caused by improper agro-waste disposal has gained significant attention in recent years. To overcome these hurdles, agro-waste can be valorized into valuable bioactive compounds that act as reducing or stabilizing agents in the synthesis of nanomaterials. Herein, we report a simple circular approach using Citrus reticulata Blanco (C. reticulata) waste (peel powder/aqueous extract) as green reducing and capping/stabilizing agents and Zn nitrate/acetate precursors to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) with efficient antimicrobial and photocatalytic activities. The obtained NPs crystallized in a hexagonal wurtzite structure and differed clearly in their morphology. UV-vis analysis of the nanoparticles showed a characteristic broad absorption band between 330 and 414 nm belonging to ZnO NPs. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of ZnO NPs exhibited a Zn-O band close to 450 cm-1. The band gap values were in the range of 2.84-3.14 eV depending on the precursor and agent used. The crystallite size obtained from size-strain plots from measured XRD patterns was between 7 and 26 nm, with strain between 16 and 4%. The highly crystalline nature of obtained ZnO NPs was confirmed by clear ring diffraction patterns and d-spacing values of the observed lattice fringes. ZnNPeelMan_400 and ZnNExtrMan showed good stability, as the zeta potential was found to be around -20 mV, and reduced particle aggregation. Photoluminescence analysis revealed different defects belonging to oxygen vacancies (VO+ and VO+2) and zinc interstitial (Zni) sites. The presence of oxygen vacancies on the surface of ZnAcExtrMan_400 and ZnAcPeelMan_400 increased antimicrobial activity, specifically against Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis). ZnNExtrMan with a minimal inhibitory concentration of 0.156 mg/mL was more effective against Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), revealing a high influence of particle size and shape on antimicrobial activity. In addition, the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO NPs was examined by assessing the degradation of acid green dye in an aqueous solution under UV light irradiation. ZnAcPeelMan_400 exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity (94%) within 90 min after irradiation compared to other obtained ZnO NPs.

Lactate enhances NMNAT1 lactylation to sustain nuclear NAD+ salvage pathway and promote survival of pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells under glucose-deprived conditions

The aim of this study was to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism behind the promotion of cell survival under conditions of glucose deprivation by l-lactate. To accomplish this, we performed tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry staining to analyze the correlation between the abundance of pan-Lysine lactylation and prognosis. In vivo evaluations of tumor growth were conducted using the KPC and nude mice xenograft tumor model. For mechanistic studies, multi-omics analysis, RNA interference, and site-directed mutagenesis techniques were utilized. Our findings robustly confirmed that l-lactate promotes cell survival under glucose deprivation conditions, primarily by relying on GLS1-mediated glutaminolysis to support mitochondrial respiration. Mechanistically, we discovered that l-lactate enhances the NMNAT1-mediated NAD+ salvage pathway while concurrently inactivating p-38 MAPK signaling and suppressing DDIT3 transcription. Notably, Pan-Kla abundance was significantly upregulated in patients with Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) and associated with poor prognosis. We identified the 128th Lysine residue of NMNAT1 as a critical site for lactylation and revealed EP300 as a key lactyltransferase responsible for catalyzing lactylation. Importantly, we elucidated that lactylation of NMNAT1 enhances its nuclear localization and maintains enzymatic activity, thereby supporting the nuclear NAD+ salvage pathway and facilitating cancer growth. Finally, we demonstrated that the NMNAT1-dependent NAD+ salvage pathway promotes cell survival under glucose deprivation conditions and is reliant on the activity of Sirt1. Collectively, our study has unraveled a novel molecular mechanism by which l-lactate promotes cell survival under glucose deprivation conditions, presenting a promising strategy for targeting lactate and NAD+ metabolism in the treatment of PAAD.

Evaluation of Plant-Based Silver Nanoparticles for Antioxidant Activity and Promising Wound-Healing Applications

The current research focuses on the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a polar extract of taro corms and the evaluation of its antioxidant properties and wound-healing applications. Taro corm extract (100 mL) was treated with a 5 mM AgNO3 solution (100 mL) at room temperature for the formation of AgNPs, and a color change was observed. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peaks in their UV-visible spectra appeared at a range of 438-445 nm. Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, dynamic light scattering, and X-ray diffraction were used for the characterization of the taro corms extract-mediated AgNPs (TCE-AgNPs). The synthesized AgNPs were crystalline and spherical, with an average size of 244.9-272.2 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.530 and zeta potential of -18.8 mV, respectively. The antibacterial potential of TCE-AgNPs was tested, and the inhibition zones detected against Cronobacter sakazakii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis were 28, 26, 18, and 13 mm, respectively. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of TCE-AgNPs showed significant radical-scavenging activity compared to the standard used. Collagen content data collected from regenerated tissue and higher collagen content indicated rapid wound healing compared to others, which was seen in a group treated with TCE-AgNP film bandages.

Bioactive silver nanoparticles fabricated using Lasiurus scindicus and Panicum turgidum seed extracts: anticancer and antibacterial efficiency

Applying extracts from plants is considered a safe approach in biomedicine and bio-nanotechnology. The present report is considered the first study that evaluated the seeds of Lasiurus scindicus and Panicum turgidum as biogenic agents in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) which had bioactivity against cancer cells and bacteria. Assessment of NPs activity against varied cell lines (colorectal cancer HCT116 and breast cancer MDA MBA 231 and MCF 10A used as control) was performed beside the antibacterial efficiency. Different techniques (DLS, TEM, EDX and FTIR) were applied to characterize the biosynthesized AgNPs. The phytochemicals from both L. scindicus and Panicum turgidum were identified by GC-MS analysis. Spherical monodisperse NPs at average diameters of 149.6 and 100.4 nm were obtained from seed extract of L. scindicus (L-AgNPs) and P. turgidum, (P-AgNPs) respectively. A strong absorption peak at 3 keV is observed by the EDX spectrum in the tested NPs. Our study provided effective NPs in mitigating the tested cell lines and the lowest IC50 were 7.8 and 10.30 for MDA MB231 treated by L-AgNPs and P-AgNPs, respectively. Both fabricated NPs might differentially target the MDA MB231 cells compared to HCT116 and MCF10A. Ultrastructural changes and damage for the NPs-treated MDA MB231 cells were studied using TEM and LSM analysis. Antibacterial activity was also observed. About 200 compounds were identified in L. scindicus and P. turgidum by GC-MS analysis might be responsible for the NPs reduction and capping abilities. Efficient NPs against cancer cells and microbes were obtained, however large-scale screening is needed to validate our findings.

The role of pH-induced tautomerism of polyvinylpyrrolidone on the size, stability, and antioxidant and antibacterial activities of silver nanoparticles synthesized using microwave radiation

Tautomerism alters the structure and properties of materials, which can be exploited to control their chemical and biological activities. The role of pH-induced tautomerism of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was determined by measuring the size, stability, and antioxidant and antibacterial properties of microwave synthesized-silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). TEM and XRD analyses confirmed the formation of face-centered cubic silver nanoparticles. PVP stabilized the AgNPs by interaction with the carbonyl or hydroxyl groups depending on the tautomerization under different pH conditions. At pH 4, PVP was stable in the keto tautomer, stabilizing Ag through electron donation of oxygen atoms in the carbonyl group, producing smaller AgNPs with a higher zeta potential. At pH 7 and 9, the enol tautomer PVP stabilized the AgNPs via oxygen atoms in the hydroxyl group, forming large nanoparticles. The keto form of PVP improved the stability and antioxidant and antibacterial properties of AgNPs compared with the enol form. This study also excluded the antioxidant contribution of PVP via hydrogen donation to free radicals. A facile method for controlling the size of AgNPs by adapting the pH-induced tautomerism of PVP that affects their stability and antioxidant and antibacterial activities is thus reported.

Characteristics and Antimicrobial Activities of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Obtained via Mixed-Mode Chemical/Biogenic Synthesis Using Spent Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) Extracts

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have many practical applications, ranging from environmental protection to biomedicine. IONPs are being investigated due to their high potential for antimicrobial activity and lack of toxicity to humans. However, the biological activity of IONPs is not uniform and depends on the synthesis conditions, which affect the shape, size and surface modification. The aim of this work is to synthesise IONPs using a mixed method, i.e., chemical co-precipitation combined with biogenic surface modification, using extracts from spent hops (Humulus lupulus L.) obtained as waste product from supercritical carbon dioxide hop extraction. Different extracts (water, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 80% ethanol, acetone, water) were further evaluated for antioxidant activity based on the silver nanoparticle antioxidant capacity (SNPAC), total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). The IONPs were characterised via UV-vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Spent hop extracts showed a high number of flavonoid compounds. The efficiency of the solvents used for the extraction can be classified as follows: DMSO > 80% ethanol > acetone > water. FT-IR/ATR spectra revealed the involvement of flavonoids such as xanthohumol and/or isoxanthohumol, bitter acids (i.e., humulones, lupulones) and proteins in the surface modification of the IONPs. SEM images showed a granular, spherical structure of the IONPs with diameters ranging from 81.16 to 142.5 nm. Surface modification with extracts generally weakened the activity of the IONPs against the tested Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeasts by half. Only the modification of IONPs with DMSO extract improved their antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus cereus) from a MIC value of 2.5-10 mg/mL to 0.313-1.25 mg/mL.

Cytotoxic, antioxidant, and antiglycation activities, and tyrosinase inhibition using silver nanoparticles synthesized by leaf extract of Solanum aculeatissimum Jacq

The present study aimed to determine the biological properties of an extract of Solanum aculeatissimum aqueous extract (SaCE) alone as well as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) generated by green synthesis utilizing S. aculeatissimum aqueous extract (SaCE). These synthesized SaCE AgNPs were characterized using UV-VIS spectrophotometry, scanning transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), zeta potential (ZP), dynamic light scattering (DLS). Determination of total polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins content was conducted. In addition, high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) was employed to identify constituents in this extract. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH radical scavenging and ferric ion reducing power (FRAP) methods. Antiglycation activity was demonstrated through relative mobility in electrophoresis (RME) and determination of free amino groups. The inhibitory activity on tyrosinase was also examined. Molecular docking analyses were performed to assess the molecular interactions with DNA and tyrosinase. The antitumor activity SaCE was also measured. Phytochemical analysis of SaCE and AgNPs showed presence polyphenols (1000.41 and 293.37 mg gallic acid equivalent/g), flavonoids (954.87 and 479.87 mg rutin equivalent/g), saponins (37.89 and 23.01% total saponins), in particular steroidal saponins (aculeatiside A and B). Both SaCE and AgNPs exhibited significant antioxidant (respectively, 73.97%, 56.27% in DPPH test, 874.67 and 837.67 μM Trolox Equivalent/g in FRAP test) and antiglycation activities (72.81 and 67.98% free amino groups, results observed in RME). SaCE and AgNPs presented 33.2, 36.1% inhibitory activity on tyrosinase, respectively. In silico assay demonstrated interaction between steroidal saponins, DNA or tyrosinase. SaCE exhibited antitumor action against various human tumor cells. Data demonstrated that extracts SaCE alone and AgNPs synthesized from SaCE presented biological properties of interest for application in new therapeutic formulations in medicine.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Cirsium congestum Extract Modified by Chitosan/Alginate: Bactericidal Activity against Pathogenic Bacteria and Cytotoxicity Analysis in Normal Cell Line

AIM

The study aimed to determine in vitro pharmacological effects of modified Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs).

BACKGROUND

AgNPs are considered antimicrobial agents. However, the cytotoxicity of chemically synthesized AgNPs (cAgNPs) has raised challenges that limit their use.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the study was to examine the antimicrobial and cytotoxicity effects of AgNPs synthesized using Cirsium congestum extract modified by chitosan/alginate AgNPS (Ch/ALG-gAgNPs).

METHODS

Nanoparticles were characterized using TEM, DLS, XRD, and FTIR. Resistant strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were used for the antimicrobial analysis of Ch/ALG-gAgNPs using disc diffusion and microdilution methods. The effects of NPs on cell viability and apoptosis in L929 normal cells were determined using MTT assay and annexin/PI staining, respectively.

RESULTS

Physicochemical characterizations confirmed Ch/ALG-gAgNPs to be spherical and uniformly dispersed, and their size ranged from 50 to 500 nm. Ch/ALG-gAgNPs inhibited the growth of microbial strains in a dose-dependent manner. The antibacterial effect of Ch/ALG-gAgNPs was significantly higher than cAgNPs. The Ch/ALG-gAgNPs showed little cytotoxicity against normal cells at concentrations less than 50 μg/ml. Cytotoxicity effects of Ch/ALG-gAgNP were less than cAgNPs. Flow cytometry and real-time PCR results showed a decrease in apoptosis percentage and BAX marker in the presence of Ch/ALG-gAgNPs relative to when the cell was treated with cAgNPs.

CONCLUSION

Current findings introduce novel gAgNPs modified with chitosan/alginate for use in medicine.

Chemical composition and biological evaluation of the essential oil of the flowering aerial parts of Aegopodium alpestre Ledeb

Aegopodium alpestre Ledeb (A. alpestre) is a plant known for its fragrant smell and has been traditionally used to treat influenza. However, despite its widespread use, there is no research on its flowering aerial parts. This study aims to contribute to the understanding the flowering aerial parts by investigating its volatile oil. The essential oil was extracted through hydrodistillation and analysed using GC-MS. The analysis identified 54 compounds, which accounted for 95.16% of the oil composition. The major components are germacrene D (31.68%), β-caryophyllene (16.07%), and (E)-β-farnesene (7.99%). To evaluate the antioxidant activity of volatile oil, six antioxidant experiments were conducted. The results indicated that volatile oil exhibited significant 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt and hydroxyl radical scavenging abilities. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of volatile oil was assessed against four common pathogenic bacteria. The findings demonstrated that volatile oil displayed potent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Aerogenic bacterium.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Jacobaea maritima and the Evaluation of Their Antibacterial and Anticancer Activities

Much attention has been gained on green silver nanoparticles (green-AgNPs) in the medical field due to their remarkable effects against multi-drug resistant (MDR) microorganisms and targeted cancer treatment. In the current study, we demonstrated a simple and environment-friendly (i.e., green) AgNP synthesis utilizing Jacobaea maritima aqueous leaf extract. This leaf is well-known for its medicinal properties and acts as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Nanoparticle preparation with the desired size and shape was controlled by distinct parameters; for instance, temperature, extract concentration of salt, and pH. The characterization of biosynthesized AgNPs was performed by the UV-spectroscopy technique, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared. The successful formation of AgNPs was confirmed by a surface plasmon resonance at 422 nm using UV-visible spectroscopy and color change observation with a particle size of 37± 10 nm and a zeta potential of -10.9 ± 2.3 mV. SEM further confirmed the spherical size and shape of AgNPs with a size varying from 28 to 52 nm. Antibacterial activity of the AgNPs was confirmed against all Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial reference and MDR strains that were used in different inhibitory rates, and the highest effect was on the E-coli reference strain (MIC = 25 μg/mL). The anticancer study of AgNPs exhibited an IC50 of 1.37 μg/mL and 1.98 μg/mL against MCF-7 (breast cancer cells) and A549 (lung cancer cells), respectively. Therefore, this green synthesis of AgNPs could have a potential clinical application, and further in vivo study is required to assess their safety and efficacy.

Metallic elements combine with herbal compounds upload in microneedles to promote wound healing: a review

Wound healing is a dynamic and complex restorative process, and traditional dressings reduce their therapeutic effectiveness due to the accumulation of drugs in the cuticle. As a novel drug delivery system, microneedles (MNs) can overcome the defect and deliver drugs to the deeper layers of the skin. As the core of the microneedle system, loaded drugs exert a significant influence on the therapeutic efficacy of MNs. Metallic elements and herbal compounds have been widely used in wound treatment for their ability to accelerate the healing process. Metallic elements primarily serve as antimicrobial agents and facilitate the enhancement of cell proliferation. Whereas various herbal compounds act on different targets in the inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling phases of wound healing. The interaction between the two drugs forms nanoparticles (NPs) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), reducing the toxicity of the metallic elements and increasing the therapeutic effect. This article summarizes recent trends in the development of MNs made of metallic elements and herbal compounds for wound healing, describes their advantages in wound treatment, and provides a reference for the development of future MNs.

Salinity stress and nanoparticles: Insights into antioxidative enzymatic resistance, signaling, and defense mechanisms

Salinized land is slowly spreading across the world. Reduced crop yields and quality due to salt stress threaten the ability to feed a growing population. We discussed the mechanisms behind nano-enabled antioxidant enzyme-mediated plant tolerance, such as maintaining reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis, enhancing the capacity of plants to retain K+ and eliminate Na+, increasing the production of nitric oxide, involving signaling pathways, and lowering lipoxygenase activities to lessen oxidative damage to membranes. Frequently used techniques were highlighted like protecting cells from oxidative stress and keeping balance in ionic state. Salt tolerance in plants enabled by nanotechnology is also discussed, along with the potential role of physiobiochemical and molecular mechanisms. As a whole, the goal of this review is meant to aid researchers in fields as diverse as plant science and nanoscience in better-comprehending potential with novel solutions to addressing salinity issues for sustainable agriculture.

Antimicrobial and Apoptotic Efficacy of Plant-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles

Phytogenically synthesised nanoparticle (NP)-based drug delivery systems have promising potential in the field of biopharmaceuticals. From the point of view of biomedical applications, such systems offer the small size, high surface area, and possible synergistic effects of NPs with embedded biomolecules. This article describes the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using extracts from the flowers and leaves of tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.), which is known as a remedy for many health problems, including cancer. The reducing power of the extracts was confirmed by total phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant tests. The Ag-NPs were characterised by various analytical techniques including UV-vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and a dynamic light scattering (DLS) system. The obtained Ag-NPs showed higher cytotoxic activity than the initial extracts against both human cervical cancer cell lines HeLa (ATCC CCL-2) and human melanoma cell lines A375 and SK-MEL-3 by MTT assay. However, the high toxicity to Vero cell culture (ATCC CCL-81) and human fibroblast cell line WS-1 rules out the possibility of their use as anticancer agents. The plant-mediated Ag-NPs were mostly bactericidal against tested strains with MBC/MIC index ≤4. Antifungal bioactivity (C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. parapsilosis) was not observed for aqueous extracts (MIC > 8000 mg L^-1), but Ag-NPs synthesised using both the flowers and leaves of tansy were very potent against Candida spp., with MIC 15.6 and 7.8 µg mL^-1, respectively.

Rising Influence of Nanotechnology in Addressing Oxidative Stress-Related Liver Disorders

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a significant role in the survival and decline of various biological systems. In liver-related metabolic disorders such as steatohepatitis, ROS can act as both a cause and a consequence. Alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are two distinct types of steatohepatitis. Recently, there has been growing interest in using medications that target ROS formation and reduce ROS levels as a therapeutic approach for oxidative stress-related liver disorders. Mammalian systems have developed various antioxidant defenses to protect against excessive ROS generation. These defenses modulate ROS through a series of reactions, limiting their potential impact. However, as the condition worsens, exogenous antioxidants become necessary to control ROS levels. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising avenue, utilizing nanocomplex systems as efficient nano-antioxidants. These systems demonstrate enhanced delivery of antioxidants to the target site, minimizing leakage and improving targeting accuracy. Therefore, it is essential to explore the evolving field of nanotechnology as an effective means to lower ROS levels and establish efficient therapeutic interventions for oxidative stress-related liver disorders.

Rising Influence of Nanotechnology in Addressing Oxidative Stress-Related Liver Disorders

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a significant role in the survival and decline of various biological systems. In liver-related metabolic disorders such as steatohepatitis, ROS can act as both a cause and a consequence. Alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are two distinct types of steatohepatitis. Recently, there has been growing interest in using medications that target ROS formation and reduce ROS levels as a therapeutic approach for oxidative stress-related liver disorders. Mammalian systems have developed various antioxidant defenses to protect against excessive ROS generation. These defenses modulate ROS through a series of reactions, limiting their potential impact. However, as the condition worsens, exogenous antioxidants become necessary to control ROS levels. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising avenue, utilizing nanocomplex systems as efficient nano-antioxidants. These systems demonstrate enhanced delivery of antioxidants to the target site, minimizing leakage and improving targeting accuracy. Therefore, it is essential to explore the evolving field of nanotechnology as an effective means to lower ROS levels and establish efficient therapeutic interventions for oxidative stress-related liver disorders.

A Scoping Review of Genus Viscum: Biological and Chemical Aspects of Alcoholic Extracts

The genus Viscum comprises a large number of semi-parasitic shrubs popularly known as Mistletoe. The Viscum species grow in many countries of Europe, Africa and Asia with different popular uses in ornamentation, foods and medicine. Many studies about Viscum have been done over the last years focusing on biological activities and chemical composition of the aqueous extracts, mainly related to anthroposophical medicines. However, it is known that non-aqueous preparations, as alcoholic extracts, have demonstrated different biological activities that are species-and host tree-dependent. Considering the potential of these alcoholic extracts, a scoping review was conducted using data from three online databases: PubMed, Scopus and Embase. Inclusion criteria consisted of the in vitro, in vivo, ex vivo, clinical and chemical studies of alcoholic extracts from Viscum species. The present review summarized 124 original publications about fourteen Viscum species. Viscum album, Viscum articulatum and Viscum coloratum were the main studied species. Alcoholic extracts demonstrated hypotensive, anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory capabilities, among other biological activities. Flavonoids, phenolic acids and terpenoids represented 48%, 24% and 11% of the total identified compounds, respectively. This review contributes to the knowledge of alcoholic preparations of the Viscum species and points out the lack of clinical studies concerning these different extracts.

Silver nanoparticles in denture adhesive: An antimicrobial approach against Candida albicans

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the antimicrobial potential of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) synthesized using three different routes (ultraviolet light, Turkevich, and green chemistry method using Glycine max extract) associated with COREGA® denture powder adhesive.

METHODS

Heat-cured acrylic resin specimens were treated with different Ag NPs associated with the adhesive (AD + Ag UV, AD + Ag Turk, and AD + Ag Gm groups). As controls, the specimens were treated with a combination of adhesive and nystatin (AD + Nyst group), only adhesive (AD group), or submerged on the surface of the specimens (PBS group). After the treatments, biofilms of C. albicans developed for 3, 6, and 12 h on the specimen surfaces. The biofilm was quantified using colony-forming units per milliliter, colorimetric assay, and confocal laser scanning microscopy.

RESULTS

Regardless of the period, we observed an inhibition of fungal load and a reduction in metabolic activity and biofilm mass in the resin specimens treated with the combinations AD/Ag NPs, compared to AD and PBS. The antimicrobial action of the AD + Turk and AD + Ag Gm groups was similar than that for the AD + Nyst group in all periods and viability tests, except for the biofilm mass (12 h).

CONCLUSIONS

The COREGA® adhesive with Ag NPs, mainly those synthesized using the Turkevich and Glycine max methods, showed excellent antimicrobial activity against C. albicans biofilms, maintained for up to 12 h.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The association of Ag NPs to the adhesive can add preventive or therapeutic effects against denture stomatitis, to this prosthetic material.

Environmentally benign silver bio-nanomaterials as potent antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic agents: Green synthesis using Salacia oblonga root extract

Introduction: The use of plant extracts in the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles is one of the simplest, most practical, economical, and ecologically friendly methods for avoiding the use of toxic chemicals. Method: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized, employing a high-efficiency, non- toxic, cost-effective, green, and simple technique that included the use of Salacia oblonga root extract (SOR) as a capping agent compared to synthetic nanoparticles. The use of S. oblonga can be seen in traditional medicines for treating diabetes, obesity, rheumatism, gonorrhea, asthma, and hyperglycemia. The objectives of the current study were to green synthesize S. oblonga root extract silver nanoparticles (SOR-AgNPs), characterize them, and study their antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities. Result: The shape of SOR-AgNPs was spherical, at less than 99.8 nm in size, and exhibited a crystalline peak at XRD. The green synthesized SOR-AgNPs showed significant antioxidant properties like DPPH (80.64 μg/mL), reducing power capacity (81.09 ± SEM μg/mL), nitric oxide (96.58 μg/mL), and hydroxyl (58.38 μg/mL) radical scavenging activities. The MIC of SOR-AgNPs was lower in gram-positive bacteria. The SOR-AgNPs have displayed efficient inhibitory activity against α-amylase, with an EC50 of 58.38 μg/mL. Analysis of capping protein around the SOR-AgNPs showed a molecular weight of 30 kDa. Discussion: These SOR-AgNPs could be used as antibacterial and antidiabetic drugs in the future as it is cheap, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. Bio-fabricated AgNPs had a significant impact on bacterial strains and could be used as a starting point for future antibacterial drug development.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Salvia verticillata and Filipendula ulmaria Extracts: Optimization of Synthesis, Biological Activities, and Catalytic Properties

The study's objective was to obtain silver nanoparticles (SVAgNP and FUAgNP) using aqueous extracts of Salvia verticillata and Filipendula ulmaria. The optimal conditions for nanoparticle synthesis were determined and obtained; nanoparticles were then characterized using UV-Vis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). SVAgNP and FUAgNP possessed a crystalline structure with 48.42% and 60.41% silver weight, respectively. The highest percentage of nanoparticles in the solution had a diameter between 40 and 70 nm. In DPPH˙ and ABTS˙⁺ methods, FUAgNP (IC₅₀ 15.82 and 59.85 µg/mL, respectively) demonstrated a higher antioxidant capacity than SVAgNP (IC₅₀ 73.47 and 79.49 µg/mL, respectively). Obtained nanoparticles also showed pronounced antibacterial activity (MIC ˂ 39.1 µg/mL for most of the tested bacteria), as well as high biocompatibility with the human fibroblast cell line MRC-5 and significant cytotoxicity on some cancer cell lines, especially on the human colon cancer HCT-116 cells (IC₅₀ 31.50 and 66.51 µg/mL for SVAgNP and FUAgNP, respectively). The nanoparticles demonstrated high catalytic effectiveness in degrading Congo red dye with NaBH₄. The results showed a rapid and low-cost methodology for the synthesis of AgNPs using S. verticillata and F. ulmaria with promising biological potential.

Comparative Bio-Potential Effects of Fresh and Boiled Mountain Vegetable (Fern) Extract Mediated Silver Nanoparticles

This current investigation was designed to synthesize Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) using both the fresh (Fbf) and boiled (Bbf) Korean mountain vegetable fern (named Gosari) extracts and make a comparative evaluation of its multi-therapeutic potentials. The screening of phytochemicals in the fern extract was undertaken. The synthesized fern-mediated silver nanoparticles are characterized and investigated for their bio-potential like α-glucosidase inhibition, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity prospects. The obtained AgNPs were characterized by the UV-Vis Spectra, SEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR, DLS, Zeta potential analysis, etc. The synthesis of the Fbf-AgNPs was very fast and started within 1 h of the reaction whereas the synthesis of the Bbf-AgNPs synthesis was slow and it started around 18 h of incubation. The UV-Vis spectra displayed the absorption maxima of 424 nm for Fbf-AgNPs and in the case of Bbf-AgNPs, it was shown at 436 nm. The current research results demonstrated that both Fbf-AgNPs and Bbf-AgNPs displayed a strong α-glucosidase inhibition effect with more than 96% effect at 1 µg/mL concentration, but the Bbf-AgNPs displayed a slightly higher effect with IC50 value slightly lower than the Fbf-AgNPs. Both Fbf-AgNPs and Bbf-AgNPs displayed good antioxidant effects concerning the in vitro antioxidant assays. In the case of the cytotoxicity potential assay also, among both the investigated Fbf-AgNPs and Bbf-AgNPs nanoparticles, the Bbf-AgNPs showed stronger effects with lower IC50 value as compared to the Fbf-AgNPs. In conclusion, both the fern-mediated AgNPs displayed promising multi-therapeutic potential and could be beneficial in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors. Though the synthesis process is rapid in Fbf-AgNPs, but it is concluded from the results of all the tested bio-potential assays, Bbf-AgNPs is slightly better than Fbf-AgNPs.

Nanoparticles for Topical Application in the Treatment of Skin Dysfunctions-An Overview of Dermo-Cosmetic and Dermatological Products

Nanomaterials (NM) arouse interest in various fields of science and industry due to their composition-tunable properties and the ease of modification. They appear currently as components of many consumer products such as sunscreen, dressings, sports clothes, surface-cleaning agents, computer devices, paints, as well as pharmaceutical and cosmetics formulations. The use of NPs in products for topical applications improves the permeation/penetration of the bioactive compounds into deeper layers of the skin, providing a depot effect with sustained drug release and specific cellular and subcellular targeting. Nanocarriers provide advances in dermatology and systemic treatments. Examples are a non-invasive method of vaccination, advanced diagnostic techniques, and transdermal drug delivery. The mechanism of action of NPs, efficiency of skin penetration, and potential threat to human health are still open and not fully explained. This review gives a brief outline of the latest nanotechnology achievements in products used in topical applications to prevent and treat skin diseases. We highlighted aspects such as the penetration of NPs through the skin (influence of physical-chemical properties of NPs, the experimental models for skin penetration, methods applied to improve the penetration of NPs through the skin, and methods applied to investigate the skin penetration by NPs). The review summarizes various therapies using NPs to diagnose and treat skin diseases (melanoma, acne, alopecia, vitiligo, psoriasis) and anti-aging and UV-protectant nano-cosmetics.

Nanoparticles, a Double-Edged Sword with Oxidant as Well as Antioxidant Properties—A Review

The usage of nanoparticles became inevitable in medicine and other fields when it was found that they could be administered to hosts to act as oxidants or antioxidants. These oxidative nanoparticles act as pro-oxidants and induce oxidative stress-mediated toxicity through the generation of free radicals. Some nanoparticles can act as antioxidants to scavenge these free radicals and help in maintaining normal metabolism. The oxidant and antioxidant properties of nanoparticles rely on various factors including size, shape, chemical composition, etc. These properties also help them to be taken up by cells and lead to further interaction with cell organelles/biological macromolecules, leading to either the prevention of oxidative damage, the creation of mitochondrial dysfunction, damage to genetic material, or cytotoxic effects. It is important to know the properties that make these nanoparticles act as oxidants/antioxidants and the mechanisms behind them. In this review, the roles and mechanisms of nanoparticles as oxidants and antioxidants are explained.

An Overview of Essential Microelements and Common Metallic Nanoparticles and Their Effects on Male Fertility

Numerous factors affect reproduction, including stress, diet, obesity, the use of stimulants, or exposure to toxins, along with heavy elements (lead, silver, cadmium, uranium, vanadium, mercury, arsenic). Metals, like other xenotoxins, can cause infertility through, e.g., impairment of endocrine function and gametogenesis or excess production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The advancement of nanotechnology has created another hazard to human safety through exposure to metals in the form of nanomaterials (NMs). Nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit a specific ability to penetrate cell membranes and biological barriers in the human body. These ultra-fine particles (<100 nm) can enter the human body through the respiratory tract, food, skin, injection, or implantation. Once absorbed, NPs are transported to various organs through the blood or lymph. Absorbed NPs, thanks to ultrahigh reactivity compared to bulk materials in microscale size, disrupt the homeostasis of the body as a result of interaction with biological molecules such as DNA, lipids, and proteins; interfering with the functioning of cells, organs, and physiological systems; and leading to severe pathological dysfunctions. Over the past decades, much research has been performed on the reproductive effects of essential trace elements. The research hypothesis that disturbances in the metabolism of trace elements are one of the many causes of infertility has been unquestionably confirmed. This review examines the complex reproductive risks for men regarding the exposure to potentially harmless xenobiotics based on a series of 298 articles over the past 30 years. The research was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases searching for papers devoted to in vivo and in vitro studies related to the influence of essential elements (iron, selenium, manganese, cobalt, zinc, copper, and molybdenum) and widely used metallic NPs on male reproduction potential.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Pecan Nut (Carya illinoinensis) Shell Extracts and Evaluation of Their Antimicrobial Activity

Nowadays, the increase in bacteria resistant to multiple antibiotics has become a real threat to the human health, forcing researchers to develop new strategies. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) may be a viable solution to this problem. The green synthesis of AgNPs is considered a green, ecological and low-priced process that provides small and biocompatible nanostructures with antimicrobial activity with a potential application in medicine. In this work, pecan nut shell extracts were analyzed in order to determine their viability for the production of AgNPs. These NPs were synthesized using an extract rich in bioactive molecules, varying the reaction time and silver nitrate (AgNO3) concentration. AgNPs production was confirmed by FT-IR, UV-Vis and EDX spectroscopy, while their morphology and size were determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The antibacterial activity of AgNPs was evaluated by the agar diffusion method against Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis. The results showed that it is possible to obtain nanoparticles from an extract rich in antioxidant molecules with a size between 39.9 and 98.3 nm with a semi-spherical morphology. In addition, it was shown that the reaction time and the concentration of the precursor influence the final nanoparticles size. Antimicrobial tests showed that there is greater antimicrobial inhibition against Gram-negative than Gram-positive microorganisms, obtaining inhibition zone from 0.67 to 5.67 mm.

Green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using Morinda lucida leaf extract and evaluation of its antioxidant and antimicrobial activity

This study emphasizes the production of eco-friendly silver nanoparticles from a medicinal plant extract of Morinda lucida (M. lucida) and investigated its antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Phytochemical screening of M. lucida (ML) leave extract was carried out and observed to contain some fundamental phyto-reducing agents such as reducing sugar, proteins, and alkaloids. The green synthesized AgNPs (ML-AgNPs) were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission emission microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) was performed on the synthesized ML-capped AgNPs to determine the thermal stability and the formation of the green synthesized AgNPs. The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by the UV-vis absorption spectra, which showed an absorption band at 420 nm. The morphology of ML extract-mediated AgNPs was mostly spherical and rough-edged crystallite nanostructures, with an average particle size of 11 nm. The FTIR analyses revealed distinctive functional groups which were directly involved in the synthesis and stability of AgNPs. The crystallite size was 8.79 nm, with four intense peaks at 2θ angles of 38°, 44°, 64°, and 77°. At an energy level of 3.4 keV, a significant signal was observed indicating the production of thermally stable and pure crystallite AgNPs. The antioxidant property of green synthesized ML-AgNPs was determined to be 40% higher than that of crude M. lucida leaf extract. The ability of green synthesized ML-AgNPs to scavenge free radicals also increased in the order of OH- < NO < H2O2. The ML-AgNPs have strong activities with a maximum against P. vulgaris and a minimum with E. faecalis.

Biological Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Prospects in Plant Disease Management

Exploration of nanoparticles (NPs) for various biological and environmental applications has become one of the most important attributes of nanotechnology. Due to remarkable physicochemical properties, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are the most explored and used NPs in wide-ranging applications. Also, they have proven to be of high commercial use since they possess great chemical stability, conductivity, catalytic activity, and antimicrobial potential. Though several methods including chemical and physical methods have been devised, biological approaches using organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and plants have emerged as economical, safe, and effective alternatives for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. Recent studies highlight the potential of AgNPs in modern agricultural practices to control the growth and spread of infectious pathogenic microorganisms since the introduction of AgNPs effectively reduces plant diseases caused by a spectrum of bacteria and fungi. In this review, we highlight the biosynthesis of AgNPs and discuss their applications in plant disease management with recent examples. It is proposed that AgNPs are prospective NPs for the successful inhibition of pathogen growth and plant disease management. This review gives a better understanding of new biological approaches for AgNP synthesis and modes of their optimized applications that could contribute to sustainable agriculture.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Cinnamomum tamala (Tejpata) leaf and their potential application to control multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from hospital drainage water

Green Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles is becoming a more common method for producing nanoparticles with a diameter of 1–100 nm that may be employed in a variety of medical applications. The antibacterial efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from Cinnamomum tamala (Tejpata) leaf extract against antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa is investigated in this study. Green AgNP synthesis is safe, cost-effective, and ecologically friendly. The biosynthesized AgNPs were studied using UV-Visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The AgNPs were virtually spherical, with an average size of 25–30 nm, according to TEM observations. Biochemical and molecular identification were used to isolate multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa from the hospital's drainage water. The antibacterial potential of AgNPs against P. aeruginosa is determined using the agar diffusion method. Silver nanoparticles produced from Cinnamomum tamala (Tejpata) leaf extract were shown to be effective in inhibiting four strains of P. aeruginosa. According to the agar disc diffusion method, AgNPs had the largest inhibition zone of 17.67 ± 0.577 mm, while aqueous extract had 5.67 ± 0.5777 mm, indicating that AgNPs had antibacterial activity. This study on AgNPs might assist with managing multidrug resistant pathogenic bacteria and be a possible source of medicinal application due to its potential antibacterial effect.

Structure-Morphology-Antimicrobial and Antiviral Activity Relationship in Silver-Containing Nanocomposites Based on Polylactide

Green synthesis of silver-containing nanocomposites based on polylactide (PLA) was carried out in two ways. With the use of green tea extract, Ag⁺ ions were reduced to silver nanoparticles with their subsequent introduction into the PLA (mechanical method) and Ag⁺ ions were reduced in the polymer matrix of PLA-AgPalmitate (PLA-AgPalm) (in situ method). Structure, morphology and thermophysical properties of nanocomposites PLA-Ag were studied by FTIR spectroscopy, wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) methods. The antimicrobial, antiviral, and cytotoxic properties were studied as well. It was found that the mechanical method provides the average size of silver nanoparticles in the PLA of about 16 nm, while in the formation of samples by the in situ method their average size was 3.7 nm. The strong influence of smaller silver nanoparticles (3.7 nm) on the properties of nanocomposites was revealed, as with increasing nanosilver concentration the heat resistance and glass transition temperature of the samples decreases, while the influence of larger particles (16 nm) on these parameters was not detected. It was shown that silver-containing nanocomposites formed in situ demonstrate antimicrobial activity against gram-positive bacterium S. aureus, gram-negative bacteria E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and the fungal pathogen of C. albicans, and the activity of the samples increases with increasing nanoparticle concentration. Silver-containing nanocomposites formed by the mechanical method have not shown antimicrobial activity. The relative antiviral activity of nanocomposites obtained by two methods against influenza A virus, and adenovirus serotype 2 was also revealed. The obtained nanocomposites were not-cytotoxic, and they did not inhibit the viability of MDCK or Hep-2 cell cultures.

Green Synthesis via Eucalyptus globulus L. Extract of Ag-TiO2 Catalyst: Antimicrobial Activity Evaluation toward Water Disinfection Process

The problem of water pollution by persistent substances and microorganisms requires solutions that materials such as silver-modified titanium dioxide can provide due to their excellent photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties. However, the synthesis methods conventionally used to obtain these materials involve toxic chemical reagents such as sodium borohydride (NaBH₄). The search for alternative synthesis methods that use environmentally friendly substances, such as the biosynthesis method, was evaluated. Silver-titanium dioxide (Ag-TiO₂) was synthesized by a Eucalyptus globulus L. extract as a reductive agent through sol-gel and microwave-assisted sol-gel processes. Four different solvents were tested to extract secondary metabolites to determine their roles in reducing silver nanoparticles. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles with sizes from 11 to 14 nm were obtained in the anatase phase, and no narrowing of the bandgap was observed (3.1–3.2 eV) for the Ag-TiO₂ materials compared with the pure TiO₂. Interestingly, the bacterial inhibition values were close to 100%, suggesting an effective antimicrobial mechanism related to the properties of silver. Finally, by the physicochemical characterization of the materials and their antimicrobial properties, it was possible to obtain a suitable biosynthesized Ag-TiO₂ material as a green option for water disinfection that may be compared to the conventional methods.

Biomimetic Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Ethyl Acetate Extract of Urtica diocia Leaves; Characterizations and Emerging Antimicrobial Activity

The current work reports the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the antimicrobial activities of ethyl acetate extract of Urtica diocia (UD) leaves as a reducing and capping agent. The synthesized UD-AgNPs were characterized using UV−visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The UD-AgNPs were evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and their size, shape, and distribution were recorded. The average size of an NP was 19.401 nm. The zone of inhibition (ZOI) for 75 µL of UD-AgNPs against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) was 21 ± 0.4 mm more than that of the control drug Ciprofloxacin (16 ± 10 mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was the lowest against Escherichia coli (E. coli) (36 ± 3 µg/mL) and Staphylococcusepidermidis (S. epidermidis) (38 ± 3 µg/mL). Moreover, the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was the lowest against E.coli (75 ± 00 µg/mL) and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis (83 ± 16 µg/mL). Thus, the UD-AgNPs synthesized using the ethyl acetate extract of UD can be used as a new antimicrobial drug.