Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles using Rosary Pea seed Extract: Evaluation of Antibacterial, cytotoxic and photocatalytic activity

Abstract

An effortless, economically affordable and eco-friendly green methodology was adopted to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) from Rosary Pea seed extract (Abrus precatorius - AP). The bio-fabricated silver nanoparticles (AP-Ag NPs) were identified by UltraViolet–visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDAX), Zeta potential and Transmission electron microscope (TEM). As per FT-IR data it has been inferred that biomolecules such as carbohydrates and proteins serve a vital role as capping and reducing agents. The formation of AP-Ag NPs is evidenced by the observation of the surface plasmon resonance peak at 419 nm. XRD analysis has confirmed the crystalline and Face-centered cubic (FCC) lattice structure of AP-Ag NPs. TEM image has proved the size (20 nm) and quasi-spherical shape of AP-Ag NPs. The observed zeta potential value, −30 mV indicates the good stability of AP-Ag NPs. The Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) pattern has ascertained the polycrystalline nature of AP-Ag NPs. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) examination has been utilized to assess the cytotoxicity of the synthesized AP-Ag NPs against MCF-7, and the IC50 value has been found to be 46 ± 1.5. AP-Ag NPs has displayed antibacterial action against gram-negative and gram-positive pathogens. Efficacy of AP-Ag NPs on photodegradation of Ciprofloxacin under visible light within 90 min has been performed and has found to be above 90 %. Moreover, the optimized condition of the photocatalytic degradation has also been analyzed.