Synthesis, Characterization, and Assessment of Anti-Cancer Potential of ZnO Nanoparticles in an In Vitro Model of Breast Cancer

Impact of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles on the cellular processes of stem cells derived from dental tissue sources

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticle (HANPs) utilization has recently been notable in bone tissue engineering. This surge owes itself to the biocompatibility of HANPs and their striking resemblance to the minerals found in natural bone. Furthermore, dental pulp-derived stem cells (DPSCs) have garnered attention due to their remarkable differentiation potential into multilineages, thus positioning them as a pivotal cell reservoir for regenerative medicine. This study aims to investigate the impact of HANPs on DPSCs cellular processes. The HANPs have been synthesized using the wet chemical precipitation method followed by freeze-drying and characterization using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The size of HANPs was reported to be in the range of 55-67 nm. Our dataset divulges that DPSCs can endure concentrations of HANPs up to ≤ 0.81 mg/mL without incurring any conspicuous alterations in their morphology or the pace of proliferation. Furthermore, the self-renewal potency of HANPs was upheld at concentrations ≤ 0.20 mg/mL. Flow cytometric analysis affirms a significant divergence in cell distribution across all cell cycle phases in DPSCs treated with 0.81 mg/mL HANPs. Intriguingly, no variance surfaced in the migratory capacity of DPSCs exposed to HANPs of ≤ 0.40 mg/mL. For osteogenic differentiation, HANPs at concentrations of ≤ 0.40 mg/mL demonstrated the aptitude to incite osteogenic differentiation within DPSCs, facilitating the formation of calcium deposits. In conclusion, combining HANPs and DPSCs shows promise for restoring damaged hard tissues, like bone and teeth, and enhancing regenerative therapies.

How Advanced are Self-Assembled Nanomaterials for Targeted Drug Delivery? A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

The development of effective drug delivery systems is a key focus in pharmaceutical research, aiming to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Self-assembled nanostructures present a promising solution due to their tunable properties, biocompatibility, and ability to encapsulate and deliver therapeutic agents to specific targets. This review examines recent advancements in drug-based self-assembled nanostructures for targeted delivery applications, including drug-drug conjugates, polymeric-based architectures, biomolecules, peptides, DNA, squalene conjugates and amphiphilic drugs. Various strategies for fabricating these nanostructures are discussed, with an emphasis on the design principles and mechanisms underlying their self-assembly and potential for targeted drug delivery to specific tissues or cells. Furthermore, the integration of targeting ligands, stimuli-responsive moieties and imaging agents into these nanostructures is explored for enhanced therapeutic outcomes and real-time monitoring. Challenges such as stability, scalability and regulatory hurdles in translating these nanostructures from bench to bedside are also addressed. Drug-based self-assembled nanostructures represent a promising platform for developing next-generation targeted drug delivery systems with improved therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects.

Study of the effect of zinc oxide, selenium, and silver nanoparticles on the expression level of oxidative stress-associated genes in ovarian cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by oxidative stress have emerged as critical factors in the pathophysiology of malignancies. This study investigated the antioxidant and anticancer properties of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs) against the A2780 human ovarian cancer cell line. Here, the bioinformatics approach was used to determine the top differentially expressed genes associated with oxidative stress. The ZnO-, Se-, and Ag-NPs were then synthesized via a green synthesis method and subsequently characterized using techniques, such as FTIR, XRD, DLS, zeta potential analysis, FESEM, and TEM. The antioxidant capacity of the NPs was evaluated using a DPPH scavenging assay and their effect on superoxide dismutase enzyme activity was determined. HDF and A2780 cells were treated with varying concentrations of ZnO-, Se-, and Ag-NPs, and cell viability and colony formation were assessed using MTT and clonogenic assays, respectively. Additionally, qPCR was performed to analyze the expression of the candidate genes NOX4, SOD2, and NR4A4. Characterization techniques confirmed the successful synthesis of pure, crystalline, and spherical NPs. Antioxidant assays demonstrated the significant antioxidant properties of ZnO-, Se-, and Ag-NPs. In vitro studies indicated that ZnO-, Se-, and Ag-NPs effectively inhibited cell proliferation and suppressed colony formation, likely owing to the downregulation of NOX4 and upregulation of SOD2 genes. Our findings suggest that ZnO-, Se-, and Ag-NPs may serve as promising anticancer agents for ovarian cancer and NOX4 downregulation and SOD2 upregulation can be proposed as oxidative stress biomarkers; however, further experimental investigation is required to elucidate the therapeutic potential of NPs and the early detection potential of biomarkers.

Enhancing the efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles by beta-carotene conjugation for improved anti-microbial and anti-tumor therapy for dental application

Zinc oxide NPs (ZnO NPs) are notable in nanomedicine for their exceptional physicochemical and biological properties. This study synthesizes and characterizes beta-carotene-coated ZnO NPs (BT-ZnO NPs) for potential anti-cancer and antimicrobial applications, demonstrating significant efficacy against dental pathogens and oral cancer cells. Scanning Electron Microscopy, EDAX, UV, FTIR, XRD, and Zeta potential analysis of prepared BT-ZnO NPs revealed uniform flower-like crystalline structures with intricate morphology and an average particle size of 38.06 nm. FTIR spectra identified various functional groups, suggesting a complex organic compound coated with ZnO NPs. Zeta potential measurements showed pH-dependent surface charge variations, which are crucial for understanding colloidal stability. The antimicrobial activity was potent against dental pathogens, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 50 µg/mL highlighting significant inhibition. Molecular docking studies demonstrated strong binding affinities of BT to key receptor proteins of dental pathogens. BT-ZnO NPs exhibited notable antioxidant activity of 68%, comparable to ascorbic acid, and significant anti-inflammatory effects of 75.1% at 100 µg/mL. Cytotoxicity assays indicated a concentration-dependent suppression of KB cell proliferation, decreasing cell viability to 37.19%, and gene expression studies showed elevated P53 expression, suggesting a strong apoptotic response. These multifaceted properties underscore the potential of BT-ZnO NPs as an integrated therapeutic approach for dental healthcare and oncology.

Green synthesized Zingiber officinale-ZnO nanoparticles: anticancer efficacy against 3D breast cancer model

Aim: ZnO NPs were prepared via green synthesis utilizing Zingiber Officinale.Methodology: Physical characterization and biological activity were performed against 2D, and 3D spheroids MCF-7 cell lines.Results: The NPs exhibited 188.9, 175.7 and 171.2 nm size with charge of -8.2, -11.7 and -9.7 mV for the 2%, 3% and 4% formulations. XRD confirmed a wurtzite hexagonal phase. FTIR spectra showed Zn-O stretching vibrations. The 2%, 3% and 4% formulations presented IC50 values of 14.7, 26.2 and 47 μg/ml, respectively, with complete destruction of MCF-7 spheroids. Elevated TNF-α levels suggested an inflammatory-mediated mechanism of action.Conclusion: 2% Zingiber officinale-derived ZnO NPs showed antitumor potential against deserving further mechanistic and in vivo explorations.

Electrospun zinc oxide nanoscaffolds: a targeted and selective anticancer approach

This study aims to prepare, characterize, and evaluate zinc oxide nanoscaffolds (ZnO NSs) as a potential anticancer drug that selectively targets malignant cells while remaining non-toxic to normal cells. Electrospun NSs were fabricated and loaded with varying concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs). The uniform morphology of the fabricated samples was confirmed through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) imaging. Elemental composition was investigated using Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. Biocompatibility and cytotoxicity were assessed using the (3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay) (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. The water uptake and degradation properties of the electrospun NSs were also examined. Furthermore, a cumulative release profile was generated to assess the release behavior of ZnO NSs. The prepared ZnO NSs demonstrated negligible toxicity toward normal human dermal cells. Conversely, the four used concentrations of ZnO NSs displayed substantial cytotoxicity and induced apoptosis in various cancer cell lines. The observed effects were concentration-dependent. Notably, ZnO NSs 8% exhibited the most significant reduction in cell viability against the MCF7 cell line. The findings from this study indicate the potential of ZnO NSs as an effective anticancer agent, with the ZnO NSs 8% demonstrating the most pronounced impact. This research introduces a novel application of electrospun zinc oxide nanoscaffolds, demonstrating their capacity for selective anticancer activity, particularly against breast carcinoma, while preserving normal cell viability. The study presents a significant advancement in the use of nanomaterial for targeted cancer therapy.

Updated Review of Metal Nanoparticles Fabricated by Green Chemistry Using Natural Extracts: Biosynthesis, Mechanisms, and Applications

Metallic nanoparticles have found wide applications due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Green biosynthesis using plants, microbes, and plant/microbial extracts provides an environmentally friendly approach for nanoparticle synthesis. This review discusses the mechanisms and factors governing the biosynthesis of metallic nanoparticles such as silver, gold, and zinc using various plant extracts and microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and algae. The phytochemicals and biomolecules responsible for reducing metal ions and stabilizing nanoparticles are discussed. Key process parameters like pH, temperature, and precursor concentration affecting particle size are highlighted. Characterization techniques for confirming the formation and properties of nanoparticles are also mentioned. Applications of biosynthesized nanoparticles in areas such as antibacterial delivery, cancer therapy, biosensors, and environmental remediation are reviewed. Challenges in scaling up production and regulating nanoparticle properties are addressed. Power Point 365 was used for creating graphics. Overall, green biosynthesis is an emerging field with opportunities for developing eco-friendly nanomanufacturing platforms using abundant natural resources. Further work on optimizing conditions, standardizing protocols, and exploring new biosources is needed to realize the full potential of this approach.

Advancements of metallic nanoparticles: A promising frontier in cancer treatment

The incidence of cancer is increasing and evolving as a major source of mortality. Nanotechnology has garnered considerable scientific interest in recent decades and can offer a promising solution to the challenges encountered with traditional chemotherapy. Nanoparticle utilization holds promise in combating cancer and other diseases, offering exciting prospects for drug delivery systems and medicinal applications. Metallic nanoparticles exhibit remarkable physical and chemical properties, such as their minute size, chemical composition, structure, and extensive surface area, rendering them versatile and cost-effective. Research has demonstrated their significant and beneficial impact on cancer treatment, characterized by enhanced targeting abilities, gene activity suppression, and improved drug delivery efficiency. By incorporating targeting ligands, functionalized metal nanoparticles ensure precise energy deposition within tumors, thereby augmenting treatment accuracy. Moreover, beyond their therapeutic efficacy, metal nanoparticles serve as valuable tools for cancer cell visualization, contributing to diagnostic techniques. Utilizing metal nanoparticles in therapeutic systems allows for simultaneous cancer diagnosis and treatment, while also facilitating controlled drug release, thus revolutionizing cancer care. This narrative review investigates the advancements of metal nanoparticles in cancer treatment, types and mechanisms in targeting cancer cells, application in clinical scenarios, and potential toxicity in medicine.

MgO Nanoparticles as a Promising Photocatalyst towards Rhodamine B and Rhodamine 6G Degradation

The increasing global requirement for clean and safe drinking water has necessitated the development of efficient methods for the elimination of organic contaminants, especially dyes, from wastewater. This study reports the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles via a simple precipitation approach and their thorough characterization using various techniques, including XRD, FT-IR, XPS, TGA, DLS, and FESEM. Synthesized MgO nanoparticles' photocatalytic effectiveness was evaluated towards rhodamine B and rhodamine 6G degradation under both UV and visible light irradiation. The results indicated that the MgO nanoparticles possess a face-centered cubic structure with enhanced crystallinity and purity, as well as an average crystallite size of approximately 3.20 nm. The nanoparticles demonstrated a significant BET surface area (52 m2/g) and a bandgap value equal to 5.27 eV. Photocatalytic experiments indicated complete degradation of rhodamine B dye under UV light within 180 min and 83.23% degradation under visible light. For rhodamine 6G, the degradation efficiency was 92.62% under UV light and 38.71% under visible light, thus verifying the MgO catalyst's selectivity towards degradation of rhodamine B dye. Also, reusability of MgO was investigated for five experimental photocatalytic trials with very promising results, mainly against rhodamine B. Scavenging experiments confirmed that •OH radicals were the major reactive oxygen species involved in the photodegradation procedure, unraveling the molecular mechanism of the photocatalytic efficiency of MgO.

A Comprehensive Review of Nanoparticles: From Classification to Application and Toxicity

Nanoparticles are structures that possess unique properties with high surface area-to-volume ratio. Their small size, up to 100 nm, and potential for surface modifications have enabled their use in a wide range of applications. Various factors influence the properties and applications of NPs, including the synthesis method and physical attributes such as size and shape. Additionally, the materials used in the synthesis of NPs are primary determinants of their application. Based on the chosen material, NPs are generally classified into three categories: organic, inorganic, and carbon-based. These categories include a variety of materials, such as proteins, polymers, metal ions, lipids and derivatives, magnetic minerals, and so on. Each material possesses unique attributes that influence the activity and application of the NPs. Consequently, certain NPs are typically used in particular areas because they possess higher efficiency along with tenable toxicity. Therefore, the classification and the base material in the NP synthesis hold significant importance in both NP research and application. In this paper, we discuss these classifications, exemplify most of the major materials, and categorize them according to their preferred area of application. This review provides an overall review of the materials, including their application, and toxicity.

Nanoencapsulation of extracts and isolated compounds of plant origin and their cytotoxic effects on breast and cervical cancer treatments: Advantages and new challenges

This review analyzes the current progress in loaded nanoparticles (NPs) of plant extracts or isolated antineoplastic compounds used in breast and cervical cancer treatments. Also, it provides a comprehensive overview of the contributions made by traditional medicine and nanomedicine to the research of two of the most prevalent types of cancer in women worldwide: breast and cervical cancer. Searches were conducted in electronic databases to gather relevant information related to the biological activity of the NPs, which were meticulously reviewed. Nanomedicine has advanced to incorporate plant compounds including their crude extracts, in the preparation of NPs. The most used method is green synthesis, whose most outstanding advantages, is the reduced preparation time, and the variety of results that can be obtained depending on the reaction times, pH, temperature, and concentration of both the bio-reducing agent and the compound or plant extract. Most of the studies focus on evaluating crude extracts with high polarity, such as aqueous, alcoholic, and hydroalcoholic extracts. In conclusion, exploring the use of organic compounds is considered an area of opportunity for further research and future perspectives. Most of the analyzed studies were conducted using in vitro assays, highlighting the relatively recent nature of this field. It is expected that future research will involve more in vivo assays, particularly focusing on isolated cell lines representing the most difficult-to-treat types of cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer like MDA-MB-231. Notably the MCF-7 cell line is one of the most used, while limited studies were found concerning cervical cancer.

ZnO based 0-3D diverse nano-architectures, films and coatings for biomedical applications

Thin-film nano-architecting is a promising approach that controls the properties of nanoscale surfaces to increase their interdisciplinary applications in a variety of fields. In this context, zinc oxide (ZnO)-based various nano-architectures (0-3D) such as quantum dots, nanorods/nanotubes, nanothin films, tetrapods, nanoflowers, hollow structures, etc. have been extensively researched by the scientific community in the past decade. Owing to its unique surface charge transport properties, optoelectronic properties and reported biomedical applications, ZnO has been considered as one of the most important futuristic bio-nanomaterials. This review is focused on the design/synthesis and engineering of 0-3D nano-architecture ZnO-based thin films and coatings with tunable characteristics for multifunctional biomedical applications. Although ZnO has been extensively researched, ZnO thin films composed of 0-3D nanoarchitectures with promising thin film device bio-nanotechnology applications have rarely been reviewed. The current review focuses on important details about the technologies used to make ZnO-based thin films, as well as the customization of properties related to bioactivities, characterization, and device fabrication for modern biomedical uses that are relevant. It features biosensing, tissue engineering/wound healing, antibacterial, antiviral, and anticancer activity, as well as biomedical diagnosis and therapy with an emphasis on a better understanding of the mechanisms of action. Eventually, key issues, experimental parameters and factors, open challenges, etc. in thin film device fabrications and applications, and future prospects will be discussed, followed by a summary and conclusion.

Biogenic Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles synthesized from Tinospora Cordifolia induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage and apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer

Cancer chemotherapy remains a serious challenge, and new approaches to therapy are urgently needed to build novel treatment regimens. The methanol extract of the stem of Tinospora Cordifolia was used to synthesize biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) that display anticancer activities against colorectal cancer. Biogenic ZnO-NPs synthesized from methanol extract of Tinospora Cordifolia stem (ZnO-NPs TM) were tested against HCT-116 cell lines to assess anticancer activity. UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TEM analysis characterized the biogenic ZnO-NPs. To see how well biogenic ZnO-NPs fight cancer, cytotoxicity, AO/EtBr staining, Annexin V/PI staining, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis, and caspase cascade activity analysis were performed to assess the anticancer efficacy of biogenic ZnO-NPs. The IC50 values of biogenic ZnO-NPs treated cells (HCT-116 and Caco-2) were 31.419 ± 0.682μg/ml and 36.675 ± 0.916μg/ml, respectively. qRT-PCR analysis showed that cells treated with biogenic ZnO-NPs Bax and P53 mRNA levels increased significantly (p ≤ 0.001). It showed to have impaired MMP and increased ROS generation. In a corollary, our in vivo study showed that biogenic ZnO-NPs have an anti-tumour effect. Biogenic ZnO-NPs TM showed both in vitro and in vivo anticancer effects that could be employed as anticancer drugs.

Co-biopolymer of chitosan/carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogel improved by zinc oxide and graphene quantum dots nanoparticles as pH-sensitive nanocomposite for quercetin delivery to brain cancer treatment

Brain cancer is the major reason of cancer-relevant deaths every year, as it is the most challenging cancer to treat and drug delivery. Quercetin (QUR), as a flavonoid substance found in plants and fruits, has good anticancer and medicinal effects on brain tumors, but its low stability and bioavailability as well as the blood-brain barrier (BBB), prevent it from reaching brain tumors. This research has introduced a nanocomposite made of biocompatible polymers, chitosan, and carboxymethyl cellulose. This co- biopolymer's mechanical and chemical properties and drug-loading capacity have been improved by adding zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). In addition, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were used to improve the chemical properties as well as the ability to penetrate the BBB. The CS/CMC/GQDs/ZnO@QUR nanocomposites have nanoneedle structures with an average size of 219.38 ± 5.21 nm and a zeta potential of -53 mV. The morphology, chemical bonds, and crystallinity of the nanocomposite were examined by FE-SEM, FTIR, and XRD analyses, respectively. By examining the release of QUR, it became apparent that the half-drug release takes about 72 h, which has a much more controlled release than other QUR carriers. Further, the MTT test on U-87 MG and L929 cell lines suggested that this nanocomposite has good anticancer properties and low cytotoxicity compared to the free QUR.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles induce toxicity in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cell line U2932 via activating PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of lymphoma. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have excellent anti-tumor properties in the biomedical field. The present study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism by which ZnO nanoparticles induce toxicity in DLBCL cells (U2932) via the PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy pathway. After U2932 cells were exposed to various concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles, the cell survival rate, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cell cycle arrest, and changes in the expression of PINK1, Parkin, P62, and LC3 were monitored. Moreover, we investigated monodansylcadaverine (MDC) fluorescence intensity and autophagosome and further validated the results using the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA). The results showed that ZnO nanoparticles could effectively inhibit the proliferation of U2932 cells and induce cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phases. Moreover, ZnO nanoparticles significantly increased ROS production, MDC fluorescence intensity, autophagosome formation, and the expression of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3, and decreased the expression of P62 in U2932 cells. In contrast, the autophagy level was reduced after the intervention of the 3-MA. Overall, ZnO nanoparticles can trigger PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy signaling in U2932 cells, which may be a potential therapeutic approach for DLBCL.

Nano zinc oxide-functionalized nanofibrous microspheres: A bioactive hybrid platform with antimicrobial, regenerative and hemostatic activities

Bioactive hybrid constructs are at the cutting edge of innovative biomaterials. PLA nanofibrous microspheres (NF-MS) were functionalized with zinc oxide nanoparticles (nZnO) and DDAB-modified nZnO (D-nZnO) for developing inorganic/nano-microparticulate hybrid constructs (nZnO@NF-MS and D-nZnO@NF-MS) merging antibacterial, regenerative, and haemostatic functionalities. The hybrids appeared as three-dimensional NF-MS frameworks made-up entirely of interconnecting nanofibers embedding nZnO or D-nZnO. Both systems achieved faster release of Zn²⁺ than their respective nanoparticles and D-nZnO@NF-MS exhibited significantly greater surface wettability than nZnO@NF-MS. Regarding bioactivity, D-nZnO@NF-MS displayed a significantly greater and fast-killing effect against Staphylococcus aureus. Both nZnO@NF-MS and D-nZnO@NF-MS showed controllable concentration-dependent cytotoxicity to human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) compared with pristine NF-MS. They were also more effective than pristine NF-MS in promoting migration of human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) in the in vitro wound healing assay. Although D-nZnO@NF-MS showed greater in vitro hemostatic activity than nZnO@NF-MS, (blood-clotting index 22.82 ± 0.65% vs.54.67 ±2.32%) both structures exhibited instant hemostasis (0 s) with no blood loss (0 mg) in the rat-tail cutting technique. By merging the multiple therapeutic bioactivities of D-nZnO and the 3D-structural properties of NF-MS, the innovative D-nZnO@NF-MS hybrid construct provides a versatile bioactive material platform for different biomedical applications.

A Systematic Study on Zinc-Related Metabolism in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer has become the most common cancer worldwide. Despite the major advances made in the past few decades in the treatment of breast cancer using a combination of chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and immunotherapy, the genesis, treatment, recurrence, and metastasis of this disease continue to pose significant difficulties. New treatment approaches are therefore urgently required. Zinc is an important trace element that is involved in regulating various enzymatic, metabolic, and cellular processes in the human body. Several studies have shown that abnormal zinc homeostasis can lead to the onset and progression of various diseases, including breast cancer. This review highlights the role played by zinc transporters in pathogenesis, apoptosis, signal transduction, and potential clinical applications in breast cancer. Additionally, the translation of the clinical applications of zinc and associated molecules in breast cancer, as well as the recent developments in the zinc-related drug targets for breast cancer treatment, is discussed. These developments offer novel insights into understanding the concepts and approaches that could be used for the diagnosis and management of breast cancer.

ZnO Nanoparticles from Different Precursors and Their Photocatalytic Potential for Biomedical Use

Semiconductor photocatalysts, particularly ZnO nanoparticles, were synthesized via the precipitation method using four different precursors (zinc acetate/zinc nitrate/zinc sulfate/zinc chloride) and compared, according to their optical, structural, photocatalytic, and anticancer properties. The materials were characterized via X-ray Diffraction method (XRD), micro-Raman, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) analysis. Photocatalysis was conducted under UV and visible light irradiation, using Rhodamine B as the organic pollutant. It was observed that the highest photocatalysis efficiency was obtained by the nanoparticles synthesized from the zinc acetate used as precursor material. A cell-dependent anticancer efficiency of the tested ZnO nanoparticles was also observed, that was also attributed to the different precursors and the synthesis method, revealing that the nanoparticles that were synthesized from zinc acetate were more bioactive among the four tested precursors. Overall, the data revealed that both the enhanced photocatalytic and biological activity of ZnO nanoparticles derived from zinc acetate precursor could be attributed to the reduced crystalline size, increased surface area, as well as the observed hexagonal crystalline morphology.

Green microwave synthesis of ZnO and CeO2 nanorods for infectious diseases control and biomedical applications

Control of Infectious diseases such as; bacteria and viruses, has become a globally critical issue, since the appearance of COVID-19 virus in 2020. In addition to the microbial resistance of the currently available therapeutic drugs as well as, its prolonged side effects make its use is of health care concern. Green nanotechnology approach is a promising solution for controlling such infectious diseases and many biomedical purposes. In the present study, green synthesis approach based on microwave-assisted hydrothermal method is an innovative and environmentally friendly method for preparation of bioactive CeO₂ and ZnO nanorod structured materials using Olea europaea (O. e.) leaf plant extract as a natural medicinal capping agent for controlling the shape and size of nano-products. The optical and structural analyses of the obtained nanorod-structures are characterized using; TEM, FTIR, XRD, SBET analyses and particle size analyzer. The green-synthesized ZnO and CeO₂ nanorods display an average crystallite size of approximately 15 and 5 nm, respectively. The antimicrobial activity of ZnO and CeO₂ nanorods compared with the traditional hydrothermal methods, was examined on six clinical pathogens including; (E. coli Serratia sp., S. aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus mutant, and MRSA). The results indicated superior antimicrobial and anti-tumor activities towards hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (IC₅₀ = 117.24 and 103.50 μg mL^-1 for ZnO and CeO₂ and LD₅₀ > 3000 mg kg^-1). This demonstrates that the green microwave process is a promising approach for the synthesis of effective ZnO and CeO₂ nanomaterials applied for many biomedical applications.

Effects of Waste-Derived ZnO Nanoparticles against Growth of Plant Pathogenic Bacteria and Epidermoid Carcinoma Cells

Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) has recently gained considerable interest because it is simple, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. This study therefore aimed to synthesize ZnO NPs by utilizing bioactive compounds derived from waste materials, mangosteen peels, and water hyacinth crude extracts and investigated their antibacterial and anticancer activities. As a result, X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the presence of ZnO NPs without impurities. An ultraviolet–visible absorption spectrum showed a specific absorbance peak around 365 nm with an average electronic band gap of 2.79 eV and 2.88 eV for ZnO NPs from mangosteen peels and a water hyacinth extract, respectively. An SEM analysis displayed both spherical shapes of ZnO NPs from the mangosteen peel extract (dimension of 154.41 × 172.89 nm) and the water hyacinth extract (dimension of 142.16 × 160.30 nm). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy further validated the occurrence of bioactive molecules on the produced ZnO NPs. By performing an antibacterial activity assay, these green synthesized ZnO NPs significantly inhibited the growth of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri, and Ralstonia solanacearum. Moreover, they demonstrated potent anti-skin cancer activity in vitro. Consequently, this study demonstrated the possibility of using green-synthesized ZnO NPs in the development of antibacterial or anticancer agents. Furthermore, this research raised the prospect of increasing the value of agricultural waste.