Eco-friendly Synthesis Research Articles

Biofabrication of TiO2 nanoparticles via Aspergillus niger DS22 supernatant: bioreactor optimization and multi-activity profiling

AbstractThe study presents a safe and eco-friendly green synthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) using Aspergillus niger DS22 (ON076463.1) cell-free filtrate, focusing on optimizing factors affecting nitrate reductase enzyme production within the framework TiO2 NP biosynthesis. Maximum enzyme activity was accomplished by growing A. niger DS22 in a modified MYGP medium at pH 6, 0.5% peptone, 0.15% yeast extract, 0.25% KNO3, 2% glucose, and 200 rpm for 4 days at 30 °C. Statistical optimization takes place, where a central composite design was employed for testing the reaction variables. The individual and interactive effects of process variables lead to optimal biosynthesis conditions with 10−4 M (K2TiF6) concentration, for 96 h, 28 °C, pH 9, and Ti+4 salt solution:filtrate ratio (10%, v/v). Kinetic conversion rates in 1-L shake flask and 10-L stirred tank bioreactor were calculated and compared. Current findings revealed that the yield coefficient of biomass dry weight (Yx/s) and the yield coefficient of TiO2 NP dry weight (Y pn/s) in the bioreactor exceed those of the shake flask (0.85 g/L and 0.51 g/L; 0.04 g/L and 0.11 g/L, respectively). TiO2 NPs showed anticancer activities with high biocompatibility (at 1000 µg/mL) against MCF-7 and HepG-2 cell lines, with 97.35% and 97.71% cytotoxicity, respectively. TiO2 NPs had a moderate antioxidant activity of 57.8% recorded by DPPH assay. Moreover, TiO2 NPs had anticoagulant activities and decolorization efficiency for methyl orange dye. The current study paves the way for maximizing TiO2 NP production, which can be used in industrial and medical sectors. Graphical Abstract

Phase-controlled synthesis of starch-derived Mo2C–MoC/C heterostructure catalyst for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction

The electronic structure of molybdenum carbide closely resembles that of Pt, making it a promising candidate material for replacing noble metal catalysts. However, the primary challenge is the controlled and eco-friendly synthesis of molybdenum carbide. Herein, we developed a sustainable and controlled method for synthesizing a heterostructure catalyst for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) using starch as the raw material. Through a hydrothermal redox reaction and subsequent temperature-programmed treatment under an inert atmosphere, the hexagonal Mo2C-cubic MoC heterostructure nanoparticles were dispersed on a carbon matrix. Our investigation into the synthesis process extensively covered the growth of MoO2 nanocrystals and hydrochar during the hydrothermal redox reaction, as well as the phase evolution during the subsequent temperature-programmed treatment. Electrochemical assessments demonstrated the catalyst's remarkable efficiency for the hydrogen evolution reaction across both acidic and alkaline media, achieving a current density of 10 mA/cm2 with an overpotential of 139.4 mV in 1 M KOH solution and 160.7 mV in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution. Combining a series of electrochemical characterizations and applying the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis to operando electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) data, the superior kinetic performance of the Mo2C–MoC/C was demonstrated, outperforming that of single-phase molybdenum carbide. Furthermore, the catalyst has demonstrated remarkable stability even at high current densities in both acidic and alkaline electrolytes, underscoring its potential as a cathode catalyst in both alkaline water electrolyzers and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers.

Green nanobiocatalysts: enhancing enzyme immobilization for industrial and biomedical applications.

Nanobiocatalysts (NBCs), which merge enzymes with nanomaterials, provide a potent method for improving enzyme durability, efficiency, and recyclability. This review highlights the use of eco-friendly synthesis methods to create sustainable nanomaterials for enzyme transport. We investigate different methods of immobilization, such as adsorption, ionic and covalent bonding, entrapment, and cross-linking, examining their pros and cons. The decreased environmental impact of green-synthesized nanomaterials from plants, bacteria, and fungi is emphasized. The review exhibits the various uses of NBCs in food industry, biofuel production, and bioremediation, showing how they can enhance effectiveness and eco-friendliness. Furthermore, we explore the potential impact of NBCs in biomedicine. In general, green nanobiocatalysts are a notable progression in enzyme technology, leading to environmentally-friendly and effective biocatalytic methods that have important impacts on industrial and biomedical fields.

Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Al2O3 Nanoparticles: Comprehensive Characterization Properties, Mechanics, and Photocatalytic Dye Adsorption Study

Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles are gaining traction in inorganic catalysis and photocatalysis, driving the development of eco-friendly methods. This study introduces an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach for synthesizing Al2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) using extracts derived from the leaves of Calligonum comosum L. The primary objective of this investigation is to assess the photocatalytic efficacy of the synthesized catalyst in addressing organic pollutants. The Al2O3 NPs exhibit a spherical morphology with crystalline arrangements, as evidenced by an average crystallite size of 25.1 nm in the XRD analysis. The band gap energy of the Al2O3 NPs is determined to be 2.86 eV. In terms of mechanical properties, the Al2O3 NPs show significant potential in enhancing both flexural and compressive properties, thereby making them a viable choice for improving the mechanical performance of composites. Notably, the Young’s modulus of the hybrid composite (comprising plant material and Al2O3 NPs) exhibits a remarkable increase of 34.4% in flexion and 78.3% in compression compared to the plant material alone. The catalytic performance of the Al2O3 NPs is evaluated using methylene blue (MB) as a cationic dye and Rose Bengal (RB) as an anionic dye. Impressively, the Al2O3 NPs demonstrate degradation efficiencies of 98.2% for MB and 90.5% for RB. The degradation processes occur under solar light irradiation, with a contact time of 120 m, a maintained pH of 7, and a temperature of 25 °C. This study found that Al2O3 nanoparticles are a promising, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option for water treatment.

Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Using Stem Extract of Basella Alba and Its Wound Pathogen Control

Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Using Stem Extract of Basella Alba and Its Wound Pathogen Control

Innovative two-dimensional porphyrin-integrated metal-organic frameworks for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide generation in pure water

In the quest for eco-friendly and efficient synthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a chemical with extensive applications, photocatalytic production emerges as a promising clean technique. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), known for their exceptional porosity and geometric customizability, stand at the forefront of potential photocatalytic materials. Yet, the conventional three-dimensional topologies of MOFs pose a challenge, impeding the swift transit of photogenerated electrons and thereby curbing performance enhancements. In this vein, we have engineered novel 2D porphyrin-based MOFs, specifically Ce-TCPP and La-TCPP, utilizing diverse metal sources while maintaining a consistent topological framework. This design strategy streamlines the electron and hole transport pathways, thus elevating the photocatalytic activity. Delving into the structural nuances of these MOFs, our research unveiled that the photocatalytic activity experienced a marked shift upon altering the metal cluster types. Notably, La-TCPP, as an efficacious catalyst, demonstrated an H2O2 yield of 79.75 μmol/g/h in pure water, sans any sacrificial agents. Rigorous testing confirmed the robust stability of both MOFs. This study marks the inaugural design and synthesis of a single crystal structure of La-TCPP. By strategically varying metal cluster compositions, we have fine-tuned the architecture of two-dimensional MOFs. This approach sheds light on the intricate structure-activity relationship governing the photocatalytic synthesis of H2O2, paving the way for future advancements in the field.

Biopreparation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles mediated by Calendula officinalis flower extract for catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol and treatment of allergic conjunctivitis

This study investigates the an eco-friendly synthesis for the production of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) by employing the water-soluble flower extract of Calendula officinalis as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The green produced TiO2 NPs/C. officinalis were characterized using different advanced analytical techniques, including FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDS-elemental mapping, XRD, ICP-OES and TEM. It represents the TiO2 NPs were found to be spherical in shape and well distributed without agglomeration. It also revealed the particle sizes were in the range of 30–50 nm. EDX represented the Ti atomic species along with C and O are seen to be well-dispersed in a homogeneous manner. The broad absorption band appeared at 3200–3450 cm−1 assigned to OH bond stretching belong to the adsorbed water over the titanium dioxide nanoparticles. Further, newly synthesized TiO2 NPs/C. officinalis are used as a nanocatalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). A UV–Vis spectrophotometer is employed to track the effectiveness of the reduction process. Recyclability in 8 further degradation cycles is used to assess the sustainability of this catalyst, and the results show a steady and notable degradation activity. After a week of daily treatment, the allergic conjunctivitis clinical scores in Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs were evaluated. The guinea pigs were sensitized with intraperitoneal ovalbumin and then subjected to topical conjunctival challenge. Different doses of TiO2 NPs/C. officinalis (20 and 100 µg/kg), prednisolone (30 mg/kg), chlorpheniramine (10 mg/kg), or PBS (10 mL/kg) were administered. The levels of serum Immunoglobulins were measured by ELISA. It was observed that the levels of ovalbumin-specific IgE notably decreased. Notably, the treatment with TiO2 NPs/C. officinalis at both doses led to a notably lower clinical score for allergic conjunctivitis. Furthermore, the TiO2 NPs/C. officinalis-treated guinea pigs conjunctival tissue showed mild mononuclear infiltration compared with the intense conjunctival tissue inflammatory infiltration observed in the PBS-treated group. These data suggest that TiO2 NPs/C. officinalis may have clinical efficacy in alleviating allergic conjunctivitis.

Fe3O4@SiO2-APA-Amide/Imid-CuCl2 nanocomposite as an efficient and reusable nanocatalyst for ecofriendly synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole derivatives

Fe3O4@SiO2-APA-Amide/Imid-CuCl2 nanocomposite as an efficient and reusable nanocatalyst for ecofriendly synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole derivatives

Eco-friendly synthesis and application of NH2-COOH functionalized Fe3O4@graphite carbon microballs in heavy metal removal

Heavy metal pollution in wastewater is quite challenging for the environment. This study pioneers the synthesis of a novel adsorbent, amine-acid functionalized Fe3O4 decorated carbon micro-balls (NH2-COOH/Fe3O4@CMBs) via hydrothermal process and controlled thermal treatment under nitrogen atmosphere, utilizing eco-friendly resource glucose as a carbon precursor. The formation of cubic Fe3O4 nanoparticles and crystalline graphite within a carbon core-shell structure is confirmed. NH2-COOH/Fe3O4@CMBs show a porosity conducive to ion exchange in the range of 100–300 nm via FE-SEM, exhibiting a significant surface area of 494 m²/g with optimal pore volume. Within the carbon matrix, H2-TPR affirms the robust integration of Fe3O4, essential for high adsorption rates. In practical applications, NH2-COOH/Fe3O4@CMBs demonstrate exceptional performance, removing ∼ 99 % of Pb2+ ions in 30 min., showcasing an impressive adsorption capacity of 360 mg/g. The rapid and potent adsorption is attributed to the electron-rich graphite layers and the presence of abundant chelating sites. This research introduces NH2-COOH/Fe3O4@CMBs as a commercially viable and environmentally responsible solution for the removal of hazardous heavy metals from wastewater. Scientific understanding of adsorptive material not only advances but also offers a tangible approach to mitigate a pressing public health concern, marking a significant stride towards sustainable water treatment technologies.

Microbial Nanotechnology for Precision Nanobiosynthesis: Innovations, Current Opportunities and Future Perspectivesfor Industrial Sustainability.

A new area of biotechnology is nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is an emerging field that aims to develope various substances with nano-dimensions that have utilization in the various sectors of pharmaceuticals, bio prospecting, human activities and biomedical applications. An essential stage in the development of nanotechnology is the creation of nanoparticles. To increase their biological uses, eco-friendly material synthesis processes are becoming increasingly important. Recent years have shown a lot of interest in nanostructured materials due to their beneficial and unique characteristics compared to their polycrystalline counterparts. The fascinating performance of nanomaterials in electronics, optics, and photonics has generated a lot of interest. An eco-friendly approach of creating nanoparticles has emerged in order to get around the drawbacks of conventional techniques. Today, a wide range of nanoparticles have been created by employing various microbes, and their potential in numerous cutting-edge technological fields have been investigated. These particles have well-defined chemical compositions, sizes, and morphologies. The green production ofnanoparticles mostly uses plants and microbes. Hence, the use of microbial nanotechnology in agriculture and plant science is the main emphasis of this review. The present review highlights the methods of biological synthesis of nanoparticles available with a major focus on microbially synthesized nanoparticles, parameters and biochemistry involved. Further, it takes into account the genetic engineering and synthetic biology involved in microbial nanobiosynthesis to the construction of microbial nanofactories.

One Pot Facile Bio-Synthesis of Anti-angiogenic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Using the Bio-Reductant Sida spinosa

Abstract Owing to the superior characteristics of the iron oxide nanoparticles Fe2O3 (SS-Fe) attracted a lot of attentions in various applications due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Moreover, due to their excellent surface area, compatible nano size spherical shape and ecofriendly synthesis route make them preferable and prudent in industrial and pharmacological applications. Based on this view, it aims to the bio-fabrication of iron oxide nanoparticles Fe2O3 (SS-Fe) by Sida spinosa extract as bio-reductant and stabilizing agent. The reports reveal that the nanoparticles have effective pharmacological applications. Highly economical and environmentally benign methodology supports the derivation of Fe2O3 (SS-Fe) nanoparticles in high yield. The SEM images reveals that, Fe2O3 (SS-Fe) nanoparticles possess spherical shape and the size of 81.72nm. The corresponding Fe-O band observed at 560.93 cm−1 indicates the formation of the nanoparticles. The EDX signals further confirms the nanoparticles by the peaks obtained for iron and oxygen atoms only. The absorbance peak at 374.00nm in UV-Visible spectrum evidently proves the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles. The λex = 645.18nm of the emission spectrum further supports the confirmation. The fabricated iron oxide nanoparticles show moderate antibacterial and a good antifungal efficacy. The iron oxide nanoparticles effectively inhibit the protein supply to the cancer cells which were injected to the egg yolk at 50µg/ml concentration gives 60.86% of inhibition.

Eco-friendly synthesis of N- cholyl mercapto histidine capped silver nanoparticles and its sensing of mercury (II) ions and photo catalytic degradation of methyl orange

In this report, we have developed highly water soluble and stable silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) utilizing N-Cholyl Mercapto Histidine (NCMH) as a reducing and stabilizing agent with near the primary critical micellar concentration (CMC) under ambient sunlight irradiation. Moreover, The NCMH was firstly synthesized by demonstrating the reaction between cholic acid and 2- Mercapto Histidine through a simple acid amine coupling approach. The primary and secondary CMC of NCMH surfactant was measured by pyrene (1 × 10−6 M) as a fluorescent probe, and values were found to be 3.2 and 13.1 mM respectively. The synthesized Ag NPs showed at neutral pH and highly stable for more than one year without any noticeable aggregation. The TEM analysis displays the synthesized Ag NPs having a spherical shape and average size of 9.6 ± 0.5 nm. The synthesis of stabilized Ag NPs was used for ultra-sensitive and selective detection of Hg2+ ions in aqueous medium were monitored by Uv–visible spectrometer and naked eyes with a lowest limit of detection (LOD) 7 nM. The photo-catalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) by utilizing Ag NPs as nano-catalyst exhibits a potential degradation within a study period of 180 min. Concluding that, facile and cost effective green synthesis of NCMH capped Ag NPs possess excellent reducing ability towards the selective detection of Hg2+ ions along with photo-catalytic degradation of MO dye. These true findings detached an innovative pathway of Ag NPs towards the reactivity against the catalytic activity of dye degradation and selective sensing of Hg2+ ions. Thus it paves the way for extensive range of novel potential applications of Ag NPs in various environment friendly approaches of sensitive and analytical protocol in the future.

Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Azadirachta indica and Syzygium aromaticum Extract and Its Antibacterial Action Against Enterococcus faecalis: An In Vitro Study.

Introduction Nanotechnology is the study of manipulating matter at the atomic scale involving particles smaller than 100 nm. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are gaining popularity across diverse sectors including medical, food, healthcare, consumer goods, and industrial fields due to their distinctive physical and chemical characteristics. The eco-friendly synthesis of AgNPs offers a straightforward, cost-effective, and environmentally benign method devoid of hazardous chemicals. Methodology Eighty milliliters (mL) of silver nitrate mixed with 20 mL of Azadirachta indica and Syzygium aromaticum plant extract underwent two days of magnetic stirring for AgNP synthesis. Characterization was done via ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis)-spectroscopy (300-700 nm), and antimicrobial properties, which were checked with Enterococcus faecalis, were assessed using the agar-well diffusion method. Results The change in color and peak observed in the UV-vis spectrum confirmed the successful synthesis of AgNPs. Both neem and clove extract-mediated synthesis of AgNPs exhibited antibacterial activity against E. faecalis. However, neem extract synthesized AgNPs displayed a larger inhibitory zone diameter and lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values compared to those synthesized using clove extract. Conclusion Incorporating neem and clove extracts in AgNP synthesis offers a practical, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient method with notable efficacy. These AgNPs exhibit antibacterial activity against E. faecalis, suggesting their viability as potent antibacterial agents for addressing oral pathogens. Their sustainable synthesis underscores a promising avenue for developing effective antimicrobial solutions in oral healthcare.

Soft template-induced self-assembly strategy for sustainable production of porous carbon spheres as anode towards advanced sodium-ion batteries

Doped porous carbon is a prominent sodium anode material with high specific surface area (SSA) and abundant pore structure. Compared with the traditional “hard template” technique for the synthesis of porous carbon, the “soft template” method offers a more efficient synthesis process and simplified template removal. In response to the urgent need for eco-friendly synthesis methods for functional doping, our research introduces an innovative method using biomass-derived tannic acid as a precursor. We have successfully synthesized N/S double-doped porous spherical carbon materials (DF-N/S) through a self-assembly process driven by hydrogen bonding and solvent evaporation. As an anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), DF-N/S demonstrates superior electrochemical performance, achieving a specific capacity of 327.04 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.05 Ag-1 in ether-based electrolytes. The remarkable sodium storage efficiency of DF-N/S has been thoroughly examined through kinetic analyses and ex-situ characterization methods. This study aims to provide a sustainable and widely adaptable method for the soft template production of doped carbon, while also shedding light on the intricacies of energy storage mechanisms in both ether/ester-based electrolytes.

Green synthesis of Carica papaya mediated silver nanoparticles: Characterization, antibacterial activity, and bioelectricity generation for sustainable applications in nanotechnology

This study presents a sustainable method for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using green Carica papaya extract (CPE) as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The green synthesis minimizes environmental impact and utilizes bioactive compounds in Carica papaya (CP), offering an economical and sustainable alternative. The goal is to employ CPE for the eco-friendly synthesis of Ag NPs, followed by comprehensive characterization, antibacterial evaluation, cytotoxicity against brine shrimp, and examination of bioelectricity generation. Locally sourced CP was boiled in deionized water, then cooled and filtered twice. The bio-reduction of silver ions to Ag NPs was confirmed by a color change when 45 mL of 0.005 M AgNO3 was mixed with 5 mL of CPE. Characterization through UV–vis absorption spectrophotometry (UV), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis confirms the successful formation and consistent size distribution of Ag nanoparticles. CPE is a crucial reducing agent, as evidenced by a distinct UV-visible peak at 422 nm. X-ray crystal analysis verifies highly crystalline Ag NPs with a face-centered cubic lattice structure. The d-spacing values in SAED images are consistent with the results obtained from XRD. Antimicrobial effectiveness against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis is demonstrated. The study explores the bioelectricity generation potential of CPE-synthesized Ag NPs, indicating promising prospects for sustainable energy solutions. Preliminary experiments show the ability of the nanoparticles to catalyze bio-electrochemical reactions. This dual-benefit study underscores CPEs role in antibacterial properties and bioelectricity generation, laying the groundwork for further research in sustainable nanotechnology applicable to healthcare and energy sectors and contributing to the advancement of environmentally friendly technologies.

Preparation of Green Silver Nanoparticles and Eco-Friendly Polymer-AgNPs Nanocomposites: A Study of Toxic Properties across Multiple Organisms.

This article focuses on the eco-friendly (green) synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their incorporation into a polymer matrix. For AgNPs synthesis, Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) leaf extract was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent, and as a silver precursor, AgNO3 solution with different concentrations of silver (50, 100, 250, and 500 mg/L) was used. Prepared AgNPs colloids were characterized using UV-vis spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The spherical morphology of AgNPs with an average size of 20 nm was confirmed across all samples. Further, the antimicrobial properties of the AgNPs were evaluated using the disk diffusion method on algae (Chlorella kessleri) and the well diffusion method on bacteria (Staphylococcus chromogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus uberis), along with root growth inhibition tests on white mustard (Sinapis alba). Polymer composite (PVA-AgNPs) was prepared by incorporation of AgNPs into the polymer matrix. Subsequently, non-woven textiles and thin foils were prepared. The distribution of AgNPs within the nanocomposites was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial properties of PVA-AgNPs composites were analyzed on bacteria Streptococcus uberis. It was found that not only AgNPs showed good antimicrobial properties, but toxic properties were also transferred to the PVA-AgNPs nanocomposite.

Eco-friendly synthesis of new thiophene-based Schiff bases containing piperidine rings

Eco-friendly synthesis of new thiophene-based Schiff bases containing piperidine rings

Evaluation of the Effect of Different Extraction Temperatures on the Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Ocimum basilicum (Basil) Plant

The eco-friendly green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Ocimum basilicum (basil) extract at varying extraction temperatures (40°C, 60°C, 80°C, 100°C) was investigated to determine the optimal conditions for nanoparticle formation. Analysis methods such UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and TransmissionElectron Microscopy (TEM) confirmed the crystalline, spherical nature of AgNPs and identified phytochemicals acting as capping and reducing agents. Notably, the extraction temperature was found to influence both the DPPH radical scavenging activity and the structural properties of AgNPs. According to TEM analysis results, it was observed that high extraction temperatures increased the nanoparticle formation efficiency but created a wide size distribution. The crystallite sizes, calculated using the Scherrer equation, for AgNPs synthesized at different extraction temperatures, were determined to be 12.45 nm, 18.77 nm, 17.76 nm, and 16.03 nm, respectively. The hydrodynamic sizes of the AgNPs were found to range between 158.1 and 333.7 nm. The study highlights the critical role of extraction temperature in the synthesis process, suggesting 40°C as the optimal temperature for achieving efficient and environmentally friendly synthesis of AgNPs with enhanced biological activities.

Therapeutic potential of silver nanoparticles from Helianthemum lippii extract for mitigating cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity: liver function parameters, oxidative stress, and histopathology in wistar rats.

Introduction: This study explores the therapeutic potential of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) synthesized using a Helianthemum lippii extract in mitigating cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Given the increasing environmental and health concerns associated with cadmium exposure, novel and eco-friendly therapeutic strategies are essential. Methods: Ag NPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis spectrometry, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy with scanning electron microscopy, confirming their formation with a cubic crystal structure and particle sizes ranging from 4.81 to 12.84nm. A sub-acute toxicity study of Ag NPs (2mg/kg and 10mg/kg) was conducted, showing no significant difference compared to untreated control rats (n = 3 animals/group). Subsequently, adult Wistar rats (n = 5/group) were divided into a control group and three experimental groups: Ag NPs alone, exposure to 50mg/kg CdCl2 in drinking water for 35days, and CdCl2 exposure followed by 0.1mg/kg/day Ag NPs intraperitoneally for 15days. Results: In the CdCl2-exposed group, there was a significant decrease in body weight and increases in alanine and aspartate transaminase levels (p < 0.05 vs. control), indicating hepatotoxicity. Additionally, antioxidant defenses were decreased, and malondialdehyde levels were elevated. Liver histology revealed portal fibrosis, inflammation, necrosis, sinusoid and hepatic vein dilation, and cytoplasmic vacuolations. Treatment with Ag NPs post-CdCl2 exposure mitigated several adverse effects on liver function and architecture and improved body weight. Discussion: This study demonstrates the efficacy of Ag NPs synthesized via a green method in reducing cadmium-induced liver damage. These findings support the potential of Ag NPs in therapeutic applications and highlight the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly nanoparticle synthesis methods. By addressing both toxicity concerns and therapeutic efficacy, this research aligns with the growing emphasis on environmentally conscious practices in scientific research and healthcare.

Green synthesis and characterisation of ZnO from citrus hystrix extracts for photocatalytic application

The purpose of this ongoing research project is to enhance the quality of zinc oxide (ZnO) powder synthesised through a green synthesis process using extracts from C. hystrix. The objective is to explore the potential of C. hystrix as a sustainable source for the production of ZnO nanoparticles with improved properties. Through a series of experimental procedures, including characterisation techniques such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–vis spectroscopy, the synthesised ZnO powder’s structural, morphological, and optical properties are evaluated. Additionally, the photocatalytic activity of the biosynthesised ZnO powder is assessed for its effectiveness in degrading organic pollutants under UV illumination. By systematically optimising the synthesis parameters and understanding the underlying mechanisms, this research endeavours to contribute to the advancement of green synthesis approaches for producing high-quality ZnO nanoparticles that demonstrate enhanced performance, thereby fostering sustainable and eco-friendly nanomaterial synthesis processes. Following the successful production of eco-friendly ZnO through green synthesis, the optimum sample will undergo several experiments using a doping method with various chemical substances.