Zinc Nanoparticles Research Articles

Characterization of Zinc Nanoparticles Synthesized Using the Mushroom, Pleurotus sajor-caju

Fungi including mushrooms contain various enzymes and biomolecules, making them an effective agent for synthesizing various nanoparticles. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize zinc nanoparticles using the zinc sulphate salt at the concentration of 1mM and the mushroom Pleurotus sajor-caju. The P. sajor-caju synthesized zinc nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Visible spectral analysis, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. They did not change the color and showed a characteristic surface plasmon resonance band peaking at 300nm. They were spherical and the particle size was found in the range of 7.29 nm to 13.27 nm. They showed ten bands at different stretching with wave numbers ranging between 675.17cm-1 and 3675.56cm-1. The presence of advantageous features in the zinc nanoparticles synthesized from P. sajor-caju revealed the usefulness of the synthesis of other metal nanoparticles from P. sajor-caju.

Effects of bulk forms and nanoparticles of zinc and copper oxides on the abundance, nitrogen cycling and enzymatic activities of microbial communities, morphometric parameters and antioxidant status of Hordeum vulgare L.

Uncontrolled use or improper disposal of bulk forms and nanoparticles of heavy metals may lead to their release into the environment. Coastal and floodplain ecosystems are particularly vulnerable, and the effects of metal nanoparticles on Fluvisol and Stagnic Fluvisol are poorly studied. This study aims to examine the effect of heavy metals on the enzymatic activity of the soil, the abundance of culturable microorganisms, growth, and antioxidant status of H. vulgare L. A model experiment was carried out with contamination of Stagnic Fluvisol Humic and Fluvisol with 2200 and 1320 mg kg-1 Zn and Cu, to assess the ecotoxicity of bulk forms and nanoparticles of ZnO and CuO in floodplain soils. The abundance of culturable microorganisms, namely copiotrophs, prototrophs, oligotrophs and nitrogen fixers increased. However, a sharp decrease in dehydrogenase activity and denitrification occurred. This effect was more pronounced in Fluvisol (7 times) than in Stagnic Fluvisol Humic (3 times). The accumulation of HMs was also higher in plants grown in Fluvisol (16-32 times) than in Stagnic Fluvisol Humic (13-24 times), which led to a decrease in plant growth and activation of antioxidant defense systems. An increase in the level of malondialdehyde, and the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase indicates the induction of oxidative stress. Heavy metals have a greater impact on the biological properties of Fluvisol compared to Stagnic Fluvisol Humic. The presence of heavy metals boosts the abundance of culturable microorganisms, while nanoparticles hinder plant growth more than bulk heavy metals.

Enhanced antimicrobial efficacy of hydroxyapatite-based composites for healthcare applications

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) and hydroxyapatite-based materials show promising potential in the healthcare sector due to their distinctive properties such as biocompatibility, antimicrobial efficacy, non-toxicity, and robust mechanical characteristics. This makes HAp materials play an important role in hindering infection spreading in healthcare provider institutions. This study assesses the antimicrobial efficacy of the developed hydroxyapatite-based composites incorporating copper, zinc, and silver nanoparticles. The synthesized HAp and its modified composite variants (Cu/HAp, Zn/HAp, and Ag/HAp) with varying ratios ranging from 0 to 15% (wt) were characterized using XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM analyses. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antifungal properties of the synthesized HAp and HAp-based composites were evaluated. The antibacterial effectiveness of the HAp and its composites was evaluated using a modified disc diffusion test, where the resulting inhibition zones on the agar surface were observed. All the HAp and HAp-based composites (HAp, Cu/HAp, Zn/HAp, and Ag/HAp materials) elicited in the formation of inhibitory zones. The most substantial inhibition values were observed for the 5% Ag/HAp formulation, with values of 19.7 and 13.8, against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. The 5% Ag/HAp concentration may strike an ideal balance, providing high antimicrobial activity without adverse effects on biocompatibility or material stability. These findings underscore the recommendation of the proposed HAp-based composites for infection control measures through their application on medical instruments, textiles, healthcare personnel attire, and patient garments.

Cryoprotective Effect of Zinc and Gold Nanoparticles During Cooling and Freeze-thawing on Marwari Stallion Sperm Parameters and Reactive Oxygen Species Production

BACKGROUND: Sperm cryopreservation is one of the most important procedures in the development of biotechnologies for assisted reproduction. Cryopreservation of stallion spermatozoa tends to cause plasma membrane damage due to the low ratio of cholesterol to phospholipids. Different substances and compounds can be added to semen extenders to improve sperm quality. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of supplementing semen extender with zinc nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on cooled and frozen-thawed spermatozoa of Marwari stallion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 20 ejaculates from four Marwari stallions (five ejaculates from each) were collected. The gel free semen was extended with primary extender in equal volume and then divided in three equal groups, namely control (C), zinc (ZnO) and gold (Au), and centrifuged to obtain a final concentration of 100-150 x10 6 mL -1 and then cryopreserved. Cooled and post-thaw semen evaluations were conducted for various seminal characteristics, viz. progressive sperm motility, sperm plasma membrane integrity, sperm viability, acrosome integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential. RESULTS: Cooled semen (4ºC for 2 h) evaluation revealed nonsignificant differences among the groups (C, ZnO and Au) for all the semen quality parameters. However, at the post-thaw stage, progressive sperm motility, sperm plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity and oxidative parameters were significantly (P≤ 0.01) higher in the ZnO group than Au and C. CONCLUSION: The addition of ZnO nanoparticles improves the post thaw quality of stallion spermatozoa by reducing the oxidative stress, but Au nanoparticles had no effect on cooled as well as post-thaw semen quality.

Enhancing Broiler Growth and Carcass Quality: Impact of Diets Enriched with Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder Conjugated with Zinc Nanoparticles

This study evaluated the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf powder extract stabilized with zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs-MLPE) as a natural growth promoter in broiler diets. Randomly assigned 264 one-day-old Ross 308 chicks to four different feeding treatments, with each group being subdivided into six replicates, each comprising 11 unsexed chicks. The control group was fed a basic diet without additives, while the experimental groups were supplemented with 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 cm³ of ZnNPs-MLPE/L of diet. The findings demonstrated that 2.0 and 3.0 cm³/L ZnNPs-MLPE supplementation significantly enhanced live body weight (LBW) and weight gain (BWG). Feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) did not show significant differences between the treated groups and the control, indicating that the additive did not negatively affect feed efficiency. However, an increase in abdominal fat was noted in the ZnNPs-MLPE treatments relative to the control. Blood analysis revealed that the ZnNPs-MLPE groups had significantly lower levels of "total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and alanine transaminase (ALT) compared to the control group. In contrast, total protein (TP), albumin, and the albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio" were higher in the ZnNPs-MLPE groups. Immunoglobulins IgY and IgM, as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, were elevated. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were reduced, indicating improved antioxidant capacity and immune function in the ZnNPs-MLPE-treated groups. In conclusion, supplementation with ZnNPs-MLPE at 2.0 and 3.0 cm³/L positively impacted broiler growth efficiency, antioxidant capacity, and immunological functionality. These findings support the potential of ZnNPs-MLPE as an effective natural growth enhancer for producing healthier poultry products.

Antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of Cystoseira myrica-mediated green metallic zinc nanoparticles using the algal extract: synthesis and characterization

Abstract Cystoseira myrica marine macroalgae (CSR) were used to produce metallic zinc nanoparticle composites by utilizing the phytochemicals naturally found in the algae. This involves homogenizing the residuals of CSR (10 g), zinc nitrate solution (5 M; 100 ml), and methanol liquid extract (100 ml) at 30 °C for 24 h of sonication and stirring, followed by filtration and drying. This resulted in a hybrid bio-composite (Zn/CSR), which demonstrated strong antioxidant and antidiabetic properties when compared to zinc oxide (ZnO) and CSR used separately. The Zn/CSR hybrid showed excellent antioxidant activity against common radicals such as DPPH (91.5 ± 1.66%), nitric oxide (90.4 ± 1.2%), ABTS (92.2 ± 1.9%), and O2 ·− (27.8 ± 1.12%) (p < 0.05), performing better than the standard antioxidant, ascorbic acid. Regarding its antidiabetic properties, the Zn/CSR composite significantly inhibited key enzymes involved in diabetes, including both commercial enzyme forms (α-amylase (80.3 ± 1.65%), α-glucosidase (96.6 ± 1.11%), amyloglucosidase (95.8 ± 1.3%)) and their crude intestinal forms (α-amylase (72.3 ± 1.5%), α-glucosidase (94.2 ± 1.7%)) (p < 0.05). This improvement increases the impact of the green CSR extract in reducing the agglomeration behaviors of the loaded metal and the formation of a capping layer from the phytochemicals on its surface, in addition to the beneficial effects of the CSR as substrate, which enhances the biological functions of the loaded metal and its interaction interfaces. The Zn/CSR composite also outperformed commercial miglitol drugs and slightly surpassed acarbose in effectiveness. Given the high cost and potential side effects of current medications, the Zn/CSR composite could be a cost-effective alternative for antioxidant and antidiabetic treatments. These findings also emphasize the role of CSR-derived phytochemicals and algae residues in enhancing the biological activity of the metal nanoparticles.

The efficacy of Artichoke leaf extract conjugated with organic zinc nanoparticles on growth, carcass traits and blood biochemical parameters of broilers

The efficacy of Artichoke leaf extract conjugated with organic zinc nanoparticles on growth, carcass traits and blood biochemical parameters of broilers

Fluorescent Microscopy Investigation of Cytotoxic Impact on MCF-7 Cell Line Treated With Zinc Nanoparticles Synthesized From Jania rubens.

Zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) are a viable option in a number of disciplines, including cancer treatment, due to their special features. Among the several techniques for synthesizing ZnNP, biosynthesis with natural extracts is a highly effective and environmentally benign method, especially for uses in biomedicine. Using an aqueous extract of the marine red seaweed Jania rubens, we created a unique biosynthetic technique in this study to manufacture ZnNPs. The produced ZnNPs have a characteristic flower-like form, as seen by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The effective production of ZnNPs and the involvement of biomolecules in the synthesis process were validated by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. Using the MTT assay, the cytotoxic effects of the biosynthesized ZnNPs were evaluated, indicating their ability to inhibit MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Furthermore, ZnNPs' cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells was validated by live/dead imaging experiments, which supported the MTT results.

Biofortification of Wheat Using Biologically Synthesized Zinc Nanoparticles

The research was carried out at the Green Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, with a specific emphasis on the biosynthesis of zinc nanoparticles using Pseudomonas and actinobacteria. The zinc nanoparticles were biosynthesized and characterized through UV-Visible spectroscopy, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). After biosynthesis and characterization of the nanoparticles (NPs), a pot experiment was conducted under controlled condition to enrich the zinc content in wheat using biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles.In wheatseed priming @ 500 ppm and foliar spraying @ 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through actinobacteria(T12) recorded significantly higher number of grains per spike (46.73), 1000 grain weight (42.26 g), grain yield (3.95g plant-1), straw yield (5.97g plant-1), zinc content (grain 55.87μg g-1 and straw 66.27μg g-1) and zincuptake (grain 220.69 μg plant-1, straw 395.63μg plant-1 and total zinc uptake 616.32μg plant-1), which was on par with seed priming @ 500 ppm and foliar spraying @ 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through Pseudomonas (T5).

EFFECT OF ADDING NATURAL AND NANO ZINC OXIDE TO THE DITE ON SOME GROWTH PARAMETERS OF CYPRINUS CARPIO L .

The research aimed to study the effect of natural and nano zinc oxide on some growth parameters of common carp Cyprinus carpio. Seven treatments were used, including the control without any addition, the second, third and fourth treatments by adding nano-zinc oxide at concentrations of 25, 50 and 75 mg/kg feed, respectively, and the fifth, sixth and seventh treatments by adding natural zinc oxide in the same concentrations above. The results showed that the fourth treatment was superior to the traits of the total weight gain, daily growth rate, relative and specific growth rate over the other treatments, which is an indication that the fish benefit from feed enhanced with nanoparticles by 75%, and it differed significantly )p (0.01>from the rest of the treatments. T4 treatment was recorded the best daily growth was 0.29 g/day The best feed conversion ratio was recorded in the same treatment. It can be concluded from the study that the addition of zinc nanoparticles to the diet of fish improves the level of performance and growth without causing any harm to the fish.

Effect of Green Synthesized Silver and Zinc Nanoparticles on Seed Quality OF Maize

Nanotechnology is an emerging science and has wide applications in agriculture. Green synthesized nanoparticles are safer, cost effective and eco-friendly over chemical and physical synthesis. The laboratory experiment was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of green-synthesized silver and zinc nanoparticles on seed quality of maize hybrid (GH-150125) during 2023-24 at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. Green synthesis of silver and zinc nanoparticles were mediated through neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract is as reducing and capping agent. The standardization for effective concentration and priming duration for silver and zinc nanoparticles were standardized from different concentrations of (250 ppm, 500 ppm, 750 ppm and 1000 ppm). For priming effective duration were standardized from six, eight and twelve hours inclusive of hydropriming and control (untreated). The effective concentrations of 250-750 ppm and duration of 8 h and 6 h from AgNPs and ZnNPs recorded higher respectively as compared to control and hydropriming. In laboratory, the seed treated with zinc nanoparticles at 750 ppm for 6 h recorded significantly higher germination percentage of (97 %), shoot length (21.53 cm), root length (20.17cm) and seedling vigour index I (4045) compared to control. Hence, the results conclude that ZnNPs at 750 ppm for 6 hours was superior as seed treatment in maize to enhance seed germination and seedling growth than other treatments.

Multifaceted roles of zinc nanoparticles in alleviating heavy metal toxicity in plants: a comprehensive review and future perspectives.

Heavy metal (HM) toxicity is a serious concern across the globe owing to their harmful impacts on plants, animals, and humans. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have gained appreciable attention in mitigating the adverse effects of abiotic stresses. The exogenous application of ZnO-NPs induces tolerance against HMs by improving plant physiological, metabolic, and molecular responses. They also interact with potential osmolytes and phyto-hormones to regulate the plant performance under HM stress. Moreover, ZnO-NPs also work synergistically with microbes and gene expression which helps to withstand HM toxicity. Additionally, ZnO-NPs also restrict the uptake and accumulation of HMs in plants which improves the plant performance. This review highlights the promising role of ZnO-NPs in mitigating the adverse impacts of HMs in plants. In this review, we explained the different mechanisms mediated by ZnO-NPs to counter the toxic effects of HMs. We also discussed the interactions of ZnO-NPs with osmolytes, phytohormones, and microbes in mitigating the toxic effects of HMs in plants. This review will help to learn more about the role of ZnO-NPs to mitigate HM toxicity in plants. Therefore, it will provide new insights to ensure sustainable and safer production with ZnO-NPs in HM-polluted soils.

Mediation of mammalian olfactory response by presence of odor-evoked potassium current.

It is well understood that odorants interact with specialized G-protein coupled receptors embedded in the ciliary membrane of olfactory sensory neurons (OSN) which initiates a voltage-generating intracellular cascade of signal transduction events that can be recorded at the epithelial level as an electroolfactogram (EOG). While the depolarizing excitatory pathway in vertebrates involving cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-induced Na+/Ca2+ influx and calcium-induced Cl- efflux is well established, there is evidence of potassium-associated inhibitory currents that correspond with cellular activation. While several Ca2+-dependent feedback mechanisms contribute to cellular deactivation which have been commonly attributed to these inhibitory currents, the frequently observed positive ionic conductance prior to excitatory depolarization have led many to suggest an additional earlier inhibitory mechanism at the receptor level that may be independent of downstream calcium influx. Due to conflicting conclusions, the role and mechanism behind Ca2+-independent inhibitory currents in olfactory cells is not fully understood. We investigated the functional and temporal involvement of potassium channels in odor transduction by comparing electroolfactogram (EOG) recordings in rat olfactory epithelia following ion channel inhibition and targeted activation of downstream components with or without potassium-blocking. Several K+-channel blocking agents (4-Aminopyridine, charybdotoxin, & iberiotoxin) demonstrated a diminished pre-action potential positive current that corresponded with reduced excitatory response to odor stimulation that was recovered when blockers were removed. We further assessed EOG responses in the absence of odor or with odor response enhancing zinc nanoparticles. Chemically eliciting membrane excitation in the absence of odor stimulation with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), in combination with K+-channel inhibition, further indicated potassium channel activation precedes excitatory events and is independent of cAMP-induced calcium influx. These results support previous findings of odor-activated inhibitory potassium currents that may play a functional role in subsequent G-protein activity.

Improvement of morphophysiological parameters of pepper after the seed pre-sowing treatment with zinc nanoparticles

Advanced nanotechnologies allow synthesizing nanoparticles (NPs) with given physical and chemical properties providing an opportunity to study the effects and mechanisms of NPs influence on plants in order to improve their productivity. In this study, Zn NPs introduced in the polymer coating were used as a preparation for pepper seeds pre-sowing treatment. It was found that Zn NPs in concentrations of 10–5% and 10–6% in polymers accelerated plant growth and led to a significant increase in the number of leaves and buds, root mass volume being increased by an average of 10–30% compared to the control. After seed treatment with 10–6% Zn NPs the increase of proline content in plant leaves grew by 58% (p ≤ 0.05), protein content by 20% (p ≤ 0.05); treatment of seeds with Zn HPs at 10–5% concentration led to sugar content enlargement by 36% (p ≤ 0.05), chlorophyll by 52% (p ≤ 0.05) as compared with control.

Influence of Green Synthesized Silver and Zinc Nanoparticle on Seed Quality Attributes in Red Sander (Pterocarpus santalinus Linn.)

Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus), or Rakta chandana, is an endangered tree native to the Southern Indian Peninsula, valued for its medicinal and dye properties. However, its germination is hindered by a hard seed coat, phenolic compounds and hormonal imbalances. Nanotechnology in forestry enhances product innovation, paper processes and sustainability through plant-based nanoparticle biosynthesis. The experiment used a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications and evaluated seven presowing treatments: T1 (AgNPs at 1000 ppm for 24 hours), T2 (ZnNPs at 2000 ppm for 24 hours), T3 (Conc. H2SO4 for 12 minutes), T4 (NaDC 500 ppm), T5 (Dewinging), T6 (soaking in hot water at 100°C for 5 minutes) and T7 (control). The results indicated that seeds treated with ZnNPs at 2000 ppm (T2) exhibited highest germination rate (56%), germination speed (1.04), root length (17.05 cm), shoot length (16.33cm) and highest dry weight (6.22 g) and highest seedling vigour Index-I (1869). In comparison H2SO4 treatment (T3) delivered 51.67 per cent germination and a speed of germination (0.95), with root length (15.28 cm), shoot length (16.22 cm), dry weight (5.24 g) and seedling vigour Index (1628) slightly lower but still significant. The control (T7) had the lowest performance with 31 per cent germination, a speed of 0.36, root length (15.28 cm), shoot length (16.22 cm), lower dry weight (1.63 g) and the lowest Seedling Vigour Index (649). Overall, ZnNPs at 2000 ppm (T2) were the most effective in enhancing germination, seedling growth and overall vigour in Red sanders.

Glucose Oxidation Performance of Zinc Nano-Hexagons Decorated on TiO2 Nanotube Arrays

Electrochemically anodized TiO2 nanotube arrays (NTAs) were used as a support material for the electrodeposition of zinc nanoparticles. The morphology, composition, and crystallinity of the materials were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was performed to evaluate the electrochemical properties of TiO2 NTAs. Annealing post-anodization was shown to be effective in lowering the impedance of the TiO2 NTAs (measured at 1 kHz frequency). Zinc nanohexagons (NHexs) with a mean diameter of ~300 nm and thickness of 10–20 nm were decorated on the surface of TiO2 NTAs (with a pore diameter of ~80 nm and tube length of ~5 µm) via an electrodeposition process using a zinc-containing deep eutectic solvent. EIS and CV tests were performed to evaluate the functionality of zinc-decorated TiO2 NTAs (Zn/TiO2 NTAs) for glucose oxidation applications. The Zn/TiO2 NTA electrocatalysts obtained at 40 °C demonstrated enhanced glucose sensitivity (160.8 μA mM−1 cm−2 and 4.38 μA mM−1 cm−2) over zinc-based electrocatalysts reported previously. The Zn/TiO2 NTA electrocatalysts developed in this work could be considered as a promising biocompatible electrocatalyst material for in vivo glucose oxidation applications.

Cytotoxic Effects of Biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles on Normal fibroblast cells and their antimicrobial effect on pathogenic strains

Nanoparticles, particularly zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs), have garnered substantial interest in biomedical research for their potential applications in therapeutics and antimicrobial therapy. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles on normal fibroblast cells and evaluated their antimicrobial efficacy against pathogenic strains. The biosynthesis of zinc nanoparticles was achieved through an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach utilizing biological agents. The cytotoxicity of biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles was assessed on normal fibroblast cells, serving as a model for evaluating biocompatibility. Our results indicate that biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles exhibited minimal cytotoxicity towards normal fibroblast cells, suggesting their potential safety for biomedical applications. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity of biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles was evaluated against pathogenic strains, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The antimicrobial efficacy of zinc nanoparticles demonstrated promising results, highlighting their potential as alternative antimicrobial agents. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the cytotoxic effects of biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles on normal fibroblast cells and underscores their antimicrobial potential against pathogenic strains, offering opportunities for the development of nanoparticle-based therapeutics and antimicrobial agents in medicine and healthcare.

Foliar-applied silicon and zinc nanoparticles improve plant growth, biochemical attributes, and essential oil profile of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) under different irrigation regimes.

The comparative efficacy of silicon (Si) and zinc (Zn) nanoparticles (NPs) in mitigating drought stress in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare ) remains largely unexplored. This study evaluated the impact of Si NPs and Zn NPs on enhancing plant growth and physiological-biochemical attributes of fennel under varying irrigation regimes. The 2-year study was a split-pot design with irrigation at three irrigation levels (100, 75, and 50% field capacity, FC) and five treatments of foliar application of Si and Zn NPs (control, 1mM Si NP, 2mM Si NP, 1mM Zn NP, 2mM Zn NP). Results showed that drought stress reduced plant performance. Increases in superoxide dismutase (SOD, 131%) and catalase (CAT, 276%) were seen after a 50% FC drought without the use of Si and Zn NPs. Conversely, biological yield (34%), seed yield (44%), chlorophyll a +b (26%), relative water content (RWC, 21%), and essential oil (EO) yield (50%) were all reduced. However, application of Zn and Si, particularly 1mM Si and 2mM Zn, greatly mitigated drought stress via lowering CAT and SOD activity and enhancing plant yield, chlorophyll content, RWC, and EO. The composition of the EO consisted primarily of anethole, followed by limonene, fenchone, and estragole. During drought conditions, monoterpene hydrocarbons increased while oxygenated monoterpenes decreased. The opposite trend was observed for Si and Zn NPs. Our results suggest that applying Zn NPs at 2mM followed by Si NPs at 1mM improved plant resilience and EO yield in fennel plants under water stress.

Biochemical characterization of green zinc nanoparticles fabricated by Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract and its nephroprotective effects against streptozotocin-induced nephropathy in mice: A histopathological study

The development and creation of novel therapeutic supplements and medications with exceptional efficacy in treating nephropathy is a top priority for both developed and developing nations. The antioxidant, nephroprotective, and cytotoxicity effects of green synthesized zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) containing Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract were assessed in this study. The combination of Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract with Zn nitrate solution resulted in the Zn nanoparticles production. The characteristics of Zn nanoparticles were determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray crystallography (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The synthesized nanoparticles typically ranged in size from 20 to 30 nm. These nanoparticles displayed a crystalline structure and maintained a uniform shape. To induce diabetes, 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin was administered intraperitoneally in 50 mice (n = 10). The treatment groups received glibenclamide (0.5 mg/kg) and 100 and 200 μg/kg of Zn nanoparticles through gavage for 25 days. Additionally, there was a positive control group for comparison (treated-diabetic). On the final day, serum levels of creatinine, urea, and blood glucose were determined in the samples. Following tissue processing, 5 μm sections of kidneys were stained with periodic acid Schiff (PAS) for subsequent stereological and histopathological analysis. The groups treated with ZnNPs exhibited a notable reduction (p < 0.05) in urea and blood glucose levels (about 190 mg/dL) when compared to the diabetic group (about 500 mg/dL) that did not receive treatment. Furthermore, the treatment with a high dose of ZnNPs resulted in a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in kidney weight and volume (including vessels, interstitial tissues, collecting ducts, loop of Henle, and distal and proximal tubules), and kidney structures length (including vessels, collecting ducts, loop of Henle, and distal and proximal tubules) (p > 0.05). Based on the findings, ZnNPs can control urea and blood glucose levels while preventing kidney damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic animals. This research proposes utilizing zinc nanoparticles synthesized from Stevia rebaudiana as a supplementary treatment for diabetes and kidney protection in developing nations.

Zinc Nanoparticles as a Cancer Therapeutic

In this essay, Zinc specific method of use as Nano particles will be examined for its role as an anti-cancerous agent. In a long list of referenced studies, presented one by one by the authors' own words, in a seeming endless line, this essay will show that Zinc Nanoparticles are efficient against Cancer in a way that reaches maximum inhibition capacity. Unfortunately, per the researches available on this study, that only some would be summarized here for not to overload, but these studies are often in vitro, sometimes in vivo and mostly haven't been tested almost at all on humans. Since Zinc in all its forms is anti-cancerous, more studying regarding Zinc Nano particles and plain Zinc in the treatment of human cancer patients, is urgently needed.