Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra) Calyx Wastes as a Promising Anthelmintic Agent Against Poultry Pathogen Raillietina spp.

Abstract

AbstractIn this study, we explore the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using calyx wastes from Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) and evaluate their anthelmintic potential against poultry pathogen Raillietina spp. The ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis) spectrum of nanoparticles showed an absorbance peak at 425 nm, confirming AgNP formation. Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR) analysis indicated the presence of functional groups responsible for reducing silver ions, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the crystallinity of the nanoparticles. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) analyses were used to measure the size (20–50 nm) and morphology (spherical) of the synthesized AgNPs. The dose‐dependent in vitro anthelmintic efficacy was highest at 125 μg/ml of AgNPs, resulting in paralysis and death within 0.54 and 1.29 hours, respectively, while untreated control parasites survived for ~72 hours. The SEM micrographs of the treated parasites showed swelling and blebbing of the tegument. Histochemical localization studies showed a remarkable decline of tegumental and neurotransmitter enzymes involved with the parasite's metabolism and regulation of the endogenous physiological processes. This study underscores the potential of okra calyces in the green synthesis of AgNPs and provides a novel approach to developing alternative anthelmintics that interfere with the host‐parasite interface.