Synthesis of highly active biocompatible ZrO2 nanorods using a bioextract

Abstract

The use of organic–inorganic metal oxide products in biomedical applications has emerged as the most expanding field. To have long-lasting stability and improved reliability, a biomaterial must be specially chosen and have bioactivity and mechanical properties from the application's point of view. Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) fruit is considered as one of the bioactive components. In this study, ZrO2 is prepared by hydrothermal route using a green rambutan extract as a reducing agent and it used for biomedical applications. It was found that ZrO2 nanorods hamper the growth of cancerous cells in a dose-dependent manner at a half-maximum inhibitory concentration of 55.32 μg mL−1. Phase-contrast microscopic studies confirm that ZrO2 nanorods disrupt the cell membrane and induce cell death. Keeping this in mind, ZrO2 nanorods can be a promising agent in biomedical applications.