Potential Of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Research Articles

Evaluation of ZnO nanoparticles from ‘Monsooned Malabar Robusta Coffee’ husk as a potential antioxidant and biocidal candidate: A sustainable valorization approach

Nanotechnology has become a sustainable strategy to combat drug resistance. As agro-waste management has become a concern, efficient management of produced waste has been an imposing global issue. This study evaluated antioxidant, as well as antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized by hydrothermal approach using ethanolic extract of ‘Monsooned Malabar Robusta coffee’ husk against multi-drug-resistant (MDR) strains of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli, Salmonella Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The fabrication of ZnO NPs was confirmed by spectroscopy, whereas thermogravimetric analysis-differential thermogravimetric analysis confirmed stability of ZnO NPs, while the X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed the wurtzite crystalline structure. The agglomerated nature of ZnO NPs with a nearly spherical shape was evident with scanning electron microscopy, whereas transmission electron microscopy revealed a poly-crystalline nature with a mean diameter of 26.33 ± 3.778 nm. The microbroth dilution technique revealed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 250 μg/mL and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 500 μg/mL for the ZnO NPs. Furthermore, ZnO NPs exhibited significant antibiofilm activity against the MDR-test strains. Moreover, ZnO NPs were tested safe at MIC and MBC doses in chicken erythrocytes, and commensal gut microflora tested were not inhibited. Besides, a dose-dependent antioxidant property was exhibited by ZnO NPs. Additionally, in vitro time-kill kinetic assay of MDR-test strains treated with ZnO NPs revealed a complete bacterial clearance at 24 h. Overall, the synthesis of ZnO NPs from coffee husk demonstrated a simple, eco-friendly and valorization approach that could be devised as a potential delivery molecule.

Harnessing the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles from Strychnos potatorum seeds impregnated with activated carbon for an effective removal of fluoride in deep soil water

Abstract Fluoride (F−) contamination in global water sources is a growing concern, prompting the need for innovative solutions. This explores a novel method using zinc oxide nanoparticle-activated carbon (ZnO-NP/AC) composite for efficient fluoride removal from deep soil water, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness in attracting fluoride contaminants. The focus is on treatment of water sample collected from Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu, using green synthesis method for ZnO-NP/AC column filter. Employed an exclusive column adsorption method, investigated on physiochemical parameters in water before and after running the column. Fluoride concentration and TDS where significantly harnessed in water after running the green synthesis composite column filter. Characterization of green synthesized nanoparticles of Strychnos potatorum seed powder synthesis with ZnO NPs. Green synthesis successes were confirmed in two ways; one way is UV-visible spectrophotometer technique in depth quantity peak and another one is graphically peak from SEM, density and crystalline structure in XRD techniques. Column composite with S.potatorum ZnO-AC NPs has removed fluoride efficiently (80.5%) at range of 20 g/L for a contact time of 60 minutes, surpassing World health organization (WHO) guidelines for safe drinking water. In conclusion ZnO-AC NPs composite is a sustainable and cost-effective method for effective removal of fluoride contaminants from deep soil water, addressing a pressing global issue.

Antimicrobial Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Ocimum Tenuiflorum and Ocimum Gratissimum Herbal Formulation Against Oral Pathogens.

Background This study deals with the antimicrobial efficacy of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) synthesized through green methods employing extracts from Ocimum tenuiflorum and Ocimum gratissimumand assessed for their antimicrobial properties against a range of oral pathogens. Methods Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were synthesized using extracts from Ocimum tenuiflorumand Ocimum gratissimumthrough a green synthesis approach. Antimicrobial activity was determined using the agar-well diffusion assay to evaluate the consistency of inhibition zones against oral pathogens. Variations in sensitivity were assessed through the time-kill curve assay, quantifying the response of oral pathogens to zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) exposure over time. Results The agar-well diffusion assay revealed uniform 9-mm zones of inhibition against all oral pathogens, signifying consistent antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). In the time-kill curve assay, Candida albicans exhibited the highest sensitivity, followed by Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus. Enterococcus faecalis and Lactobacillus speciesdisplayed lower sensitivity, suggesting potential selectivity. Discussion The observed variation in sensitivity implies the potential selectivity of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) against specific oral pathogens, which may have significant implications for oral health applications. These findings underscore the versatility of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) as promising antimicrobial agents, particularly for oral health applications. Conclusion This study provides promising results for the antimicrobial potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) synthesized using Ocimum tenuiflorum and Ocimum gratissimum. The consistent antimicrobial activity and variations in sensitivity among oral pathogens highlight their promising utility in oral health care.

Exploring the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles against pathogenic multi-drug resistance Staphylococcus aureus from ready-to-eat meat and its proposed mechanism

Exploring the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles against pathogenic multi-drug resistance Staphylococcus aureus from ready-to-eat meat and its proposed mechanism

Targeting Potential of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Finasteride-loaded Nano Lipidic Carriers-infused Topical Gel - In vitro and In vivo Skin Permeation Studies

Dear Editor I was going through the article with the above mentioned title which seems to be novel and imperative. Finasteride (FIN), an Inhibitor of the 5α reductase enzyme primarily utilized orally to treat androgenic alopecia, has been explored in a topical gel form. There options for treating androgenic alopecia are limited and the severe systemic adverse effects make things worse. This article highlighted lipidic nanocarriers offer numerous potential benefits like improved follicular permeability and solubility

Investigating the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles and zinc ions as promising approaches to lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer casualties globally, with adverse side effects and drug resistance making current therapeutic options inadequate. Therefore, novel therapeutics require development. A major genetic contributor to these cancers is the mutant TP53 gene, whose mutated protein fails to transactivate p21, a cell cycle control protein in p53-p21-RB signaling, resulting in uncontrolled cell growth and cisplatin resistance. Recent studies suggest zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) show promise as a targeted, cytotoxic therapy; however, their mechanisms and efficacy are strongly debated as they aggregate in solution, reducing bioavailability while demonstrating poor aqueous solubility. As such, we hypothesized that a combined treatment using either ZnO NPs and cisplatin or zinc ions and cisplatin would induce cancer cell apoptosis and reduce cisplatin resistance. We treated mutant p53 lung cancer cells with ZnO NPs, zinc ion solution isolated from the NP suspension, and/or cisplatin; all significantly reduced proliferation individually and in combination. Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and p21 upregulation from ZnO NP treatment suggests mechanisms involving p21, perhaps through a p53-independent mechanism or via p53 reactivation. Zinc ion solution rendered a reduction in p21 in the presence of significantly lower ROS induced by ZnO NP, suggesting a mechanism needing further elucidation. We subjected a control cell line, HaCaT cells, to the same treatments and demonstrated no significant reduction in proliferation in the presence of ZnO NPs or zinc ions. Our research suggests the use of ZnO NPs and zinc ions as potential strategies for lung cancer treatment regimens.

Phytochemically tailored zinc based ayurvedic nano-medicine: Therapeutic Importance and Prospects

Ayurveda, a time honoured traditional system of medicines, has thrived on its profound understanding of the correlation between human body constitution and the elements of the universe. Yashad Bhasma (Zinc Oxide), a unique Ayurvedic metallic preparation, has been employed for centuries in treating various ailments, offering a holistic approach as an immune booster and a healing agent. Phytochemically tailored Zinc based herbomineral novel preparations/formulations have been explored to be an important wide spectrum therapeutic, based on blended pharmacy methods. The article introduces the concept of zinc-based Ayurvedic nano-medicine, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of zinc oxide nano-particles, an evidence based herbo-mineral formulation which has embraced reverse pharm. principles. There lies resemblance between Ayurvedic Bhasmas and chemically metal oxides, Physicochemically, Biochemically and also in-turn physiologically. The trans-formation of metallic zinc into assimilablezinc oxide as per modified Ayurvedic methodology may be of paramount significance. This conversion not only eliminates the toxicity of the metal but also enhances biocompatibility, paving the way for targeted drug delivery and medical imaging on the lines of ADMET. Furthermore, the study calls for comprehensive standardization measures, addressing qualitative and quantitative aspects. The article highlights the necessity of scientific strategies to navigate challenges in Yashad Bhasma research, ensuring its safety, quality, and medicinal efficacy by phytochemical blending. The research advocates for a harmonious blend of traditional wisdom and modern scientific rigor to propel Ayurvedic medicinal system, specifically Yashad Bhasma, into mainstream healthcare. Standardization and redesigning may emerge as the cornerstone for bridging the gap between ancient healing practices and contemporary healthcare to foster global acceptance and utilization of Ayurvedic treatments, accepted as have been realised, practiced and proved during pandemic Corona as Repurposed therapeutic strategy.

Synthesis, characterization, radical scavenging properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles and inhibitory effect of ZnONPs-ciprofloxacin nanoconjugates on multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) enzyme

The study determined the in vitro antioxidant potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and inhibitory properties of ZnONPs-ciprofloxacin nanoconjugate on the activity of dehydrogenase enzyme from multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Rauwolfia vomitoria (SW) leaf extract was used for the synthesis of the ZnONPs. Volatile phytochemical constituents of the leaf extract were assessed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) which confirmed fifteen volatile phytochemicals with phytol (39.99 %) being the most abundant and the least being 4-hydoxy-3-methylacetophenone (0.85 %). The ZnONPs were characterized with UV–Vis spectroscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electrron Microscopy (TEM). The UV–Vis results showed maximum light absorption at a wavelength of 300 nm whereas EDS revealed 64.84 % Zn, 18.88 % O, and 16.28 % C. The microscopic studies gave agglomerated spherical zinc nanoparticles with average size of 99.02 nm. The free radical scavenging ability showed weaker properties for the ZnONPs compared to the control and the leaf extract. At 30 mg/mL, the nanoconjugates significantly (p < 0.05) recorded 100 % inhibition of the enzyme activities. The inhibitory properties of the antimicrobial agents indicated that ZnONPs-ciprofloxacin > ZnONPs > R. vomitoria leaf extract. The ZnONPs-ciprofloxacin nanoconjugate expressed mild dose–response inhibitory relationship (R2 = 0.66) against the MRSA dehydrogenase activity at the IC50 of 2.93 mg/mL.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) Treated Two Types of Osteosarcoma Cell Lines for Identifying Differentially Expressed Genes

Osteosarcoma (OS) primarily accurs in adolescents, and is more prevalent in males than females. It is characteristics by local invasive growth and early pulmonary metastases. Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional chemotherapeutic drugs due to their high selectivity and effectiveness. Previous studies have demonstrated the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as a treatment for various tumors except OS. In this study, we use RNA-seq analysis to investigate the underlying biological mechanism involved in the process of ZnO NPs-treated different types of OS cell lines. We identified 928 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in both 143B and MG-63 cells, and we validated the expression of the eight most significant DEGs using RT-qPCR. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis displayed regulation of transcription factor on nucleic acid binding in molecular function term, and extracellular space in cellular components term in both OS cell lines. Additionally, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed the co-enrichment of the MAPK, Toll-like receptor, and NF-κB pathways in both OS cell lines. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis highlighted the involvement of HMOX1, MAFB, CXCL10, and CXCL11 in various biological processes in OS cells treated with ZnO NPs. Furthermore, we confirmed the key protein molecules in the differential signaling pathways of both OS cell lines using Western Blot (WB). Our findings shed light on the potential antitumor mechanisms and exploitable bioeffects of ZnO NPs in the treatment of OS. This study provides more targets and possible mechanisms for the treatment of ZnO NPs, as well as more theoretical basis for the treatment of OS.

Targeting Potential of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Finasteride-loaded Nano Lipidic Carriers-infused Topical Gel - In vitro and In vivo Skin Permeation Studies

Background: There is an unmet clinical need to develop topical carriers for finasteride to reduce its systemic side effects in the treatment of androgenic alopecia (AGA). Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have also emerged as an influential agent in hair biology. Aim: The main focus of the work was to develop a novel formulation to explore the potential of ZnO nanoparticles in combination with NLCs of finasteride (FIN) for topical delivery. Method: ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by precipitation method and were subsequently incorporated within the Carbopol gel. The ZnO nanoparticles and the gel were evaluated for their physicochemical characteristics. In vitro release study was performed for the determination of release of the drugs from the gel and ex vivo study was conducted for the determination of penetration of the NLCs and ZnO nanoparticles into the skin. Result: The particle size of the nanoparticles was found to be 200 nm. The pH, viscosity and spreadability of the gel was observed to be 6.13±2.11, 35,845.3±6.97 cps at 5 rpm and 17.14±2.32 respectively. Ex vivo drug permeation and skin distribution studies of the NLC gel formulations carried on rat dorsal skin indicated 25.763±0.2 μg/cm² and 19.375±1.2 μg/cm² of FIN and ZnO in 12 hr respectively. Conclusion: The results indicated the potential of developed systems for topical drug delivery for treatment of androgenic alopecia.

Mechanism and synergistic effect of sulfadiazine (SDZ) and cadmium toxicity in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) and its alleviation through zinc fortification

Cadmium (Cd) and antibiotic’s tendency to accumulate in edible plant parts and fertile land is a worldwide issue. The combined effect of antibiotics and heavy metals on crops was analyzed, but not mitigation of their toxicity. This study investigated the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to alleviate the SDZ and Cd toxicity (alone/combined) to promote spinach growth. Results revealed that the ZnO 200 mg L−1 spray decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) 14%, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) 13%, and electrolyte leakage (EL) 7%, and increased the superoxide dismutase (SOD) 8%, peroxidase (POD) 25%, catalase (CAT) 39% and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) 12% in spinach leaves under combined SDZ+Cd (25 mg Kg−1 +50 mg Kg−1) stress compared to ZnO 100 mg L−1 spray. Likewise, ZnO NPs 200 mg L−1 spray enhanced the zinc (Zn) 97%, iron (Fe) 86%, magnesium (Mg) 35%, manganese (Mn) 8%, and potassium (K) 23% in shoots under combined SDZ+Cd (25 mg Kg−1 +50 mg Kg−1) stress compared to ZnO 100 mg L−1 spray. Further, ZnO 200 mg L−1 spray reduced Cd uptake in roots by 9% and shoots 15% under combined SDZ+Cd (25 mg Kg−1 +50 mg Kg−1) stress compared to ZnO 100 mg L−1. Overall, ZnO NPs alleviated the SDZ and Cd toxicity and enhanced spinach growth in all treatments.

Foliar Spraying of ZnO Nanoparticles Enhanced the Yield, Quality, and Zinc Enrichment of Rice Grains.

Zinc deficiency in rice can lead to reduced nutritional value and taste. This study investigates the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as a foliar fertilizer during the jointing stage to improve rice yield, quality, and grain zinc enrichment. Over a two-year field experiment (2019-2020), six doses of ZnO NPs (ranging from 0 to 12 kg hm-2) were applied during the jointing stage (46 days after transplanting). The results revealed that foliar spraying of ZnO NPs increased the number of spikelets per spike and the thousand-grain weight by 7.4% to 9.2% and 4.2% to 7.1%, respectively, resulting in a substantial increase in rice yield. Furthermore, it led to a reduction in chalky white and chalky whiteness by 6.23% to 23.6% and 2.2% to 27.9%. ZnO NPs effectively boosted zinc content in rice grains while decreasing the phytic acid to zinc ratio, indicating improved zinc enrichment. Remarkably, protein and amylose content remained unaffected. These findings underscore the potential of ZnO NPs as a foliar fertilizer to enhance rice production, quality, and zinc enrichment. Further research can explore optimal application strategies and long-term effects for sustainable rice production.

Antibacterial potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles derived from pineapple peel aqueous extract

Pineapple peel waste contains antioxidant molecules. This paper describes a facile, efficient, and environmentally friendly approach for synthesizing ZnO nanoparticles using pineapple peel aqueous extract. This method aims to reduce the use of harmful chemicals in producing ZnO nanoparticles using zinc nitrate as a salt precursor and evaluating their antibacterial. Pineapple peel aqueous extract was obtained by macerating pineapple peel powder in distilled water. Engaging Zn(NO3)2, pineapple peel aqueous extract, and NaOH, ZnO NPs were successfully prepared by biosynthesis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was utilized to confirm the formation of ZnO NPs, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to see the morphology and size distribution of nanoparticles. The antibacterial activity of pineapple peel extract-ZnO nanoparticles (pp-ZnO NPs) against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was evaluated by an agar disc diffusion method. The SEM images showed that by applying pineapple peel aqueous extract, the pp-ZnO with an average size below 100 nm with a mixture of flakes and rod-like shapes were obtained. The XRD pattern confirmed the wurtzite phase of ZnO, while antibacterial assay results showed that the pp-ZnO actively inhibited B. subtilis and E.coli. at concentrations of 5 and 10 wt%. Therefore, phyto-assisted synthesis mediated by pineapple peel wastes is a promising green approach to preparing ZnO nanoparticles.

Potential of green-synthesized ZnO NPs against human ovarian teratocarcinoma: an in vitro study

Ovarian cancer leads to devastating outcomes, and its treatment is highly challenging. At present, there is a lack of clinical symptoms, well-known sensitivity biomarkers, and patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Currently, available therapeutics against ovarian cancer are inefficient, costly, and associated with severeside effects. The present study evaluated the anticancer potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) that were successfully biosynthesizedin an ecofriendly mode using pumpkin seed extracts. The anticancer potential of the biosynthesized ZnO NPs was assessed using an in vitro human ovarian teratocarcinoma cell line (PA-1) by well-known assays such as MTT assay, morphological alterations, induction of apoptosis, measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and inhibition of cell adhesion/migration. The biogenic ZnO NPs exerted a high level of cytotoxicity against PA-1 cells. Furthermore, the ZnO NPs inhibited cellular adhesion and migration but induced ROS production and cell death through programmed cell death. The aforementioned anticancer properties highlight the therapeutic utility of ZnO NPs in ovarian cancer treatment. However, further research is recommended to envisage their mechanism of action in different cancer models and validation in a suitable in vivo system.

Facile fabrication of zinc oxide nanoparticles for enhanced buffalo sperm parameters during cryopreservation

BackgroundSemen cryopreservation could be enhanced by integration of biocompatible nanomaterials. Conditions in which nanoparticles are synthesized should be taken in consideration to avoid divergences in research results concerning beneficial or toxic effects. The objective of this study was to examine the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) synthesized by simple co-precipitation method for providing protection to buffalo sperm against cryo-damage. MethodsZnONPs were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), zetasizer and Raman spectroscopy. Semen was collected from six healthy buffalo bulls using artificial vagina and pooled semen samples were diluted with tris-egg yolk-fructose extender only (control) or extender supplemented with 10, 25, 50, 100 and 200 µg/ml of ZnONPs. ResultsSperm motility, membrane integrity and acrosome defects were measured. DNA damage of spermatozoa was evaluated using comet assay. To determine antioxidative role of ZnONPs, malondialdehyde (MDA) level as a biomarker of lipid peroxidation was measured in seminal plasma. Sperm motility, viability index as well as membrane integrity increased with ZnONPs concentrations up to 100 μg/ml. Likewise, no adverse effect was reported on sperm DNA integrity with all concentrations. MDA decreased up to concentration of 100 μg/ml ZnONPs. Notably, adding 25, and 50 μg/ml ZnONPs to extender produced best significant positive effects on semen parameters compared to ZnONPs free group. ConclusionThe results confirm that low concentrations of ZnONPs fabricated by co-precipitation method using water as exchange media could effectively preserve the quality of buffalo bull frozen-thawed sperm by reduction of cryoinjury.

In vitro anticancer and antibacterial performance of biosynthesized Ag and Ce co-doped ZnO NPs.

The great potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) for biomedical applications is attributed to their physicochemical properties. In this work, pure and Ag and Ce dual-doped ZnO NPs were synthesized through a facile and green route to examine their cytotoxicity in breast cancer and normal cells. The initial preparation of dual-doped nanoparticles was completed by the usage of taranjabin. The synthesis of Ag and Ce dual-doped ZnO NPs was started with preparing the Ce:Ag ratios of 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4. The cytotoxicity effects of synthesized nanoparticles against breast normal cells (MCF-10A) and breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) were examined. The hexagonal structure of synthesized nanoparticles was observed through the results of X-ray diffraction (XRD). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images exhibited the spherical shape and smooth surfaces of prepared particles along with the homogeneous distribution of Ag and Ce in ZnOwith high-quality lattice fringes without any distortions. According to the cytotoxic results, the effects of Ag/Ce dual-doped ZnO NPs on breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cells were significantly more than of pure ZnO NPs, while dual-doped and pure nanoparticles remained indifferent towards breast normal (MCF-10A) cells. In addition, we investigated the antimicrobial activity against harmful bacteria.

Application of Algal Nanotechnology for Leather Wastewater Treatment and Heavy Metal Removal Efficiency

Wastewater from tanneries may ruin agricultural fields by polluting them with trace metals. The synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) from algal sources and their application could help in decreasing hazardous materials, for environmental safety. The potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles made from Oedogonium sp. was evaluated for removal of heavy metals from leather industrial wastewater. Synthesized algal nanoparticles (0 (control), 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg) were applied to treat wastewater by using different concentrations of leather industrial effluents (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 100%) for 15, 30, and 45 d. The wastewater collected was dark brown to black in color with very high pH (8.21), EC (23.08 μs/cm), and TDS, (11.54 mg/L), while the chloride content was 6750 mg/L. The values of biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) ranged between 420 mg/L and 1123 mg/L in the current study. Prior to the application of nanoparticles, Cr (310.1), Cd (210.5), and Pb (75.5 mg/L) contents were higher in the leather effluents. The removal efficiency of TDS, chlorides, Cr, Cd, and Pb was improved by 46.5%, 43.5%, 54%, 57.6%, and 59.3%, respectively, following treatment with 1 mg of nanoparticles after 45 d. Our results suggested that the green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles is a useful and ecofriendly biotechnological tool for treating tannery effluents, before they are discharged into water bodies, thus making the soil environment clean.

Enhanced bactericidal and in vivo wound healing potential of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles from psyllium mucilage

The multifunctional zinc oxide nanoparticles are synthesized using a cost‐effective, efficient, eco‐friendly, simple, and clean synthesis approach. Herein, we reported the antibacterial and wound healing potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) prepared using psyllium gel (PG) as the reducing and stabilizing agent. The PG‐mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles (PG‐ZnO‐NPs) were characterized using UV–Vis, photoluminescence (PL), FTIR, XRD, Raman, and SEM. UV–Vis spectral studies confirmed the surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) band at 364 nm. PL results demonstrated the fluorescent or emission nature of PG‐ZnO‐NPs. FTIR analysis confirmed characteristic peaks at 873.82 and 619.88 cm−1 due to the tetrahedral coordination of zinc and the formation of the Zn‐O bond. XRD and Raman confirm the formation of PG‐ZnO‐NPs, whereas SEM analysis revealed PG‐ZnO‐NPs are rod‐shaped, having hexagonal prism‐like bases, and EDX exhibited the elemental composition of PG‐ZnO‐NPs. The as‐synthesized PG‐ZnO‐NPs possessed prominent microbicidal potential against gram‐positive (Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella shigella) bacterial strains in terms of zone of inhibition (ZOI), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). In vivo biological investigations with mice show that the synthesized PG‐ZnO‐NPs possess outstanding biocompatibility and wound healing potential. PG‐ZnO‐NPs dressing significantly speeds up full‐thickness wound repair by triggering a decrease in MMP‐1 and MMP‐2 and escalating the mRNA levels of collagen types (I &amp; III) and fibronectin. Thus, our work validates that the inclusion of PG‐ZnO‐NPs in dressing shows excellent potential for acute wound management.

Neuroprotective effects of quercetin on the cerebellum of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnoNps)-exposed rats

ABSTRACT Engineered nanomaterials induce hazardous effects at the cellular and molecular levels. We investigated different mechanisms underlying the neurotoxic potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on cerebellar tissue and clarified the ameliorative role of Quercetin supplementation. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into control group (I), ZnONPs-exposed group (II), and ZnONPs and Quercetin group (III). Oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA & TOS), antioxidant biomarkers (SOD, GSH, GR, and TAC), serum interleukins (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured. Serum micro-RNA (miRNA): miRNA-21-5p, miRNA-122-5p, miRNA-125b-5p, and miRNA-155-3p expression levels were quantified by real-time quantitative polymerase-chain reaction (RT-QPCR). Cerebellar tissue sections were stained with Hematoxylin & Eosin and Silver stains and examined microscopically. Expression levels of Calbindin D28k, GFAP, and BAX proteins in cerebellar tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry. Quercetin supplementation lowered oxidative stress biomarkers levels and ameliorated the antioxidant parameters that were decreased by ZnONPs. No significant differences in GR activity were detected between the study groups. ZnONPs significantly increased serum IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α which were improved with Quercetin. Serum miRNA-21-5p, miRNA-122-5p, miRNA-125b-5p, and miRNA-155-p expression levels showed significant increase in ZnONPs group, while no significant difference was observed between Quercetin-treated group and control group. ZnONPs markedly impaired cerebellar tissue structure with decreased levels of calbindin D28k, increased BAX and GFAP expression. Quercetin supplementation ameliorated cerebellar tissue apoptosis, gliosis and improved calbindin levels. In conclusion: Quercetin supplementation ameliorated cerebellar neurotoxicity induced by ZnONPs at cellular and molecular basis by different studied mechanisms.Abbreviations: NPs: Nanoparticles, ROS: reactive oxygen species, ZnONPs: Zinc oxide nanoparticles, AgNPs: silver nanoparticles, BBB: blood–brain barrier, ncRNAs: Non-coding RNAs, miRNA: Micro RNA, DMSO: Dimethyl sulfoxide, LPO: lipid peroxidation, MDA: malondialdehyde, TBA: thiobarbituric acid, TOS: total oxidative status, ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, H2O2: hydrogen peroxide, SOD: superoxide dismutase, GR: glutathione reductase, TAC: total antioxidant capacity, IL-1: interleukin-1, TNF: tumor necrosis factor alpha, cDNA: complementary DNA, RT-QPCR: Real-time quantitative polymerase-chain reaction, ABC: Avidin biotin complex technique, DAB: 3′, 3-diaminobenzidine, SPSS: Statistical Package for Social Sciences, ANOVA: One way analysis of variance, Tukey’s HSD: Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference, GFAP: glial fiberillar acitic protein, iNOS: Inducible nitric oxide synthase, NO: nitric oxide, HO-1: heme oxygenase-1, Nrf2: nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, NF-B: nuclear factor-B, SCI: spinal cord injury, CB: Calbindin

Potential of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as an Anticancer Agent: A Review

According to reports, one of the leading causes of mortality is cancer. Over the years, numerous approaches have been devised to lessen chronic pain and death as well as to elevate the quality of life. However, a scarcity persists in the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Early cancer identification and medication delivery with excellent specificity to reduce toxicities are two critical elements in ensuring effective cancer treatment. As a result of severe systemic toxicities and issues with current cancer diagnostic and treatment procedures, alternative nanotechnology-based techniques are being employed to improve detection and minimize disease severity. Nanotechnology has shown promising breakthroughs in cancer therapy by eliminating tumours with minimal damage to surrounding healthy cells. Since zinc is one of the necessary trace elements found in large amounts in human body tissues, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are said to be the most cost-effective and have the least hazardous characteristics of all metal oxide nanoparticles. In addition, ZnO NPs have several biological uses, notably in the field of drug administration. In this review, we tried to explore the advantage of ZnO NPs in the biomedical field, particularly in the treatment of cancer which can help to facilitate future research progress.