Zinc Oxide Research Articles

Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Induce Macrophage Secretion of ATP and HMGB1 to Enhance Irradiation-Led Immunogenic Cell Death.

ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and HMGB1 (high mobility group box 1 protein) are key players in treatments that induce immunogenic cell death (ICD). However, conventional therapies, including radiotherapy, are often insufficient to induce ICD. In this study, we explore a strategy using nanoparticle-loaded macrophages as a source of ATP and HMGB1 to complement radiation-induced intrinsic and adaptive immune responses. To this end, we tested three inorganic particles, namely, iron oxide nanoparticles (ION), aluminum oxide nanoparticles (AON), and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZON), in vitro with bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and then in vivo in syngeneic tumor models. Our results showed that ION was the most effective of the three nanoparticles in promoting the secretion of ATP and HMGB1 from macrophages without negatively affecting macrophage survival. Secretions from ION-loaded macrophages can activate BMDCs. Intratumoral injection of ION-loaded macrophages significantly enhanced tumor infiltration and activation of dendritic cells and cytotoxic T cells. Moreover, exogenous ION macrophages can enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy. In addition, direct injection of ION can also enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy, which is attributed to ION uptake by and stimulation of endogenous macrophages. Instead of directly targeting cancer cells, our strategy targets macrophages and uses them as a secretory source of ATP and HMGB1 to enhance radiation-induced ICD. Our research introduces a new nanoparticle-based immunomodulatory approach that may have applications in radiotherapy and beyond.

Effective removal of atrazine pesticide residue from wastewater using transition metal-doped zinc oxide photocatalyst.

Frequent use of pesticides results in the release of large quantities of their residues in the environment, raising various concerns for humans and the ecosystem. This work introduces a simple and cost-effective method for removal atrazine pesticide residue (APR) from agricultural wastewater using Cu doped-ZnO photocatalyst (Cu-ZnO). The modification of ZnO with Cu significantly improved its optical and photoelectrochemical properties, with the band gap narrowing from 3.3 to 2.64 eV. The photodegradation of APR was 93.6 and 91.7% in aqueous solution and agricultural wastewater, respectively. After being reused four times, Cu-ZnO did not display a notable drop in degradation performance, with the rates of 93.6, 91.2, 86.8, and 83.1% during the first, second, third, and fourth recycles, respectively. Also, the release of Cu from Cu-ZnO after six cycles was <2%, suggesting the excellent stability of the modified photocatalyst without any issues related to secondary pollution. Under natural sunlight, 83.9% of APR was removed, confirming the benefit of Cu-ZnO in reducing the treatment costs of pesticides by utilizing renewable energy. In addition, the degradation mechanism of APR by Cu-ZnO was proposed based on the outcomes of radical quenching and TOC removal tests.

In-vitro Antimicrobial Activity of ZnO Nanoparticles Produced by Hydrothermal Method Against Some Foodborne Pathogens

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are synthesized via a multitude of techniques, resulting in nanoparticles of varying sizes and morphologies that directly influence their antimicrobial efficacy. The objective of this study is to ascertain the particle size and morphology of ZnO-NPs synthesised via the hydrothermal method and to evaluate their in vitro antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli O157, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes, which are important foodborne pathogens. The ZnO-NPs were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Furthermore, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and the diameter of inhibition zones were measured against these pathogenic bacteria. The SEM images revealed that the ZnO-NPs exhibited a uniform distribution, with particle sizes ranging between 23 and 25 nm. The MIC and MBC values against the tested strains were found to range from 20.83 to 41.67 µg/mL and between 66.67- 83.33 µg/mL, respectively. In addition, the diameter of inhibition zones were ranged from 15.16 to 16.96 mm. The findings of the study demonstrated that ZnO-NPs s synthesized via the hydrothermal method exhibited antibacterial effects against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In conclusion, the use of ZnO-NPs can facilitate the improvement of the microbiological quality of foods by the inhibition of foodborne patogens.

Molecular-scale free volume and dynamic properties of a model ionomeric elastomer: Effect of curative systems

Cross-links significantly influence the chain packing efficiency and free volume in elastomeric materials, affecting their segmental dynamics. In this context, ionomeric elastomers serve as model systems that can undergo vulcanization through covalent and ionic cross-linking, enabling tuning their macroscopic properties. In this study, we investigate the effects of sulfur (covalent) and zinc oxide (ionic) cross-linking (with and without stearic acid) on the cross-link density, molecular-scale free volume, segmental relaxation and mechanical properties of carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber (XNBR) networks by using a combination of analytical techniques including swelling studies, positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and tensile testing. PALS measurements revealed a distinctive bimodal distribution of free-volume elements in the ionomeric networks, observed for the first time. This feature provided evidence of ionic aggregation-induced immobilization of polymer chains, which resulted in smaller free volume elements (1.5–2 Å) than in the bulk ionomeric matrix (3.0–3.5 Å). DMA studies revealed two segmental relaxations (α and α′) in the cross-linked elastomers, which could be tailored based on the cross-link density of the networks. The frequency-dependent DMA master curves, derived through time-temperature superposition, showed broad tan δ (loss factor) vs. frequency profiles for the networks with tan δ values exceeding 0.50, indicating their potential suitability for passive vibration damping applications. The ionically cross-linked networks exhibited superior mechanical properties compared to the networks prepared by covalent and mixed modes of curing.

Formulation of Biological Sunscreen from Calendula arvensis Capitula Extracts: Antioxidant, Anti-Aging, Surface Tension, and UVB Protection Properties Assessed

Skin protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation has long been crucial due to its role in photoaging, sunburn, and wrinkles. This study focuses on developing a bio-based sunscreen from Calendula arvensis capitula extract. Various extraction methods (maceration, sonication, and infusion) and solvents (EtOH, EtOH-H2O, and H2O) were explored in order to identify the most effective extract for use in a sunscreen formulation. Each extract was analyzed for its phenolic content, as well as antioxidant activities (assessed through DPPH, CAT, and FRAP assays). Enzyme inhibition assays for tyrosinase, elastase, and collagenase highlighted the low IC50 values of the hydroethanolic extract. Furthermore, the in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) against UVB radiation was measured using ultraviolet spectrophotometry. A phytochemical analysis showed phenolic levels between 8 and 27 mg GAE/g, flavonoid concentrations of 7–13 mg QE/g, and tannin levels of 1.15–1.68 mg/mL, alongside moderate antioxidant activity. The ethanol maceration extract reduced the interfacial tension to 2.15 mN/m in 600 s, outperforming the conventional emulsifier polysorbate 20. The sonicated hydroethanolic extract demonstrated remarkable SPF efficacy (SPF = 193.65 ± 0.02), far exceeding that of the standard zinc oxide (SPF = 11.88 ± 0.03). The proposed formulations meet the COSMOS standards, suggesting their potential for certification as biological products. Further clinical and in vivo studies are necessary to confirm their safety and commercial viability.

Direct In Situ Fabrication of Strong Bonding ZIF-8 Film on Zinc Substrate and Its Formation Mechanism

There is much promise for creating metal organic framework (MOF) films on metal substrates in fields including sensing and electrical conduction. For these applications, direct production of MOF films with strong bonding on metal substrates is extremely desirable. In this study, a simple one-step method without the need for additives or pre-modification is used to directly create zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) films with strong bonding on zinc substrate. The formation mechanisms of ZIF-8 film are analyzed. The strong bonding ZIF-8 film can be attributed to an in-situ grown ZnO interlayer between the ZIF-8 and substrate. The growth process shows the formation time of zinc oxide on the substrate, which is subsequently covered by ZIF-8 crystals. The ZnO interlayer results from a combination of decomposition products of the solvent and the zinc ions. Furthermore, the ZnO interlayer serves as a sacrificial precursor for the in-situ nucleation and continuous growth of ZIF-8 film. It serves as an anchoring site between ZIF-8 film and substrate, resulting in strong adhesion. This paper describes a simple and straightforward production process that is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the laboratory preparation of ZIF films.

Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles from sour cherry pomace extract as an effective light absorber and photocatalyst in textile industry

Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles from sour cherry pomace extract as an effective light absorber and photocatalyst in textile industry

Evaluation of Antibacterial (Antibiofilm) Activity Potential of ZnONPs Coated on Wound Dressing Cloth

Introduction: In light of the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the necessity for efficient wound treatment, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have garnered interest for their potent antibacterial and antibiofilm characteristics. This study examines the incorporation of green synthesized ZnONPs into wound dressing fabric to inhibit bacterial colonization and biofilm development, and significant obstacles in wound healing. The present study aims to assess the antibacterial efficacy of plant-mediated and pre-synthesized as well as characterized ZnONPs against opportunistic bacterial pathogens to create more effective wound dressings that facilitate expedited, infectionfree recovery. Methods: The antibacterial efficiency of this green-mediated ZnONPs coated wound dressing material against the opportunistic Gram-positive and negative bacterial pathogens were checked. Various concentrations (0.20, 0.40, and 0.60%) of ZnONPs were used to coat the dressing material. This ZnONPs antibacterial activity was analyzed quantitatively by various time intervals (4-24 hr) and incubated as per the standard bacterial growth conditions. Results: The findings show that 20 hr after incubation, Gram-negative bacterial growth was inhibited on dressing cloth coated with 0.60% ZnONPs, while Gram-positive bacteria inhibition was observed 24 hr after incubation on dressing cloth coated with 0.40% ZnONPs. These findings suggest that 0.40% and 0.60% ZnONPs significantly kill both groups of opportunistic pathogens. Discussion: Bacterial infections as well as biofilm formation on wound surfaces significantly impede effective healing, resulting in chronic wounds and elevated healthcare expenses. Conventional wound dressings frequently exhibit inadequate antimicrobial efficacy, particularly against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. ZnONPs have attracted interest owing to their strong antibacterial, antibiofilm, and biocompatibility characteristics. This study assesses the efficacy of ZnONPs-coated wound dressings in suppressing bacterial proliferation and biofilm development, potentially providing a remedy for infectionassociated complications in wound care. The results may facilitate the creation of more efficient wound dressings, thereby decreasing infection rates and enhancing patient outcomes in clinical environments. Conclusion: Thus, these ZnONPs could be employed as an antibiofilm/antibacterial coating material in wound dressing cloths to prevent secondary opportunistic bacterial infections.

Structural, Optical, Magnetic and Electrical Properties of Zinc Oxide Doped with Iron: A Review

This study reviewed the structural, optical, magnetic and electrical properties of zinc oxide (ZnO) nano-particles doped with iron relative to zinc oxide. ZnO is an excellent nanomaterial in semiconductor industries because of its properties such as low cost, high stability and high absorbance. However, its application has been limited because of some undesirable characteristics. Hence, doping with iron has proven essential in overcoming these limitations. The X-ray diffraction studies show that the structure is hexagonal with wurtzite structure, ZnO films prefer to grow in the (002) direction. This is because each apex is parallel to the c-axis in the wurtzite structure. This review reported that optical band gap ZnO nano-particles doped with iron was found to be in the range to (3.26 - 3.35) eV. The electrical properties of these films indicated low resistivity and consequently high electrical conductivity at high dopant iron concentration. Consequently, higher electrical resistivity was observed with lower conductivity at lower iron dopant concentration. Higher iron-doped ZnO (x=0.10 and 0.20) samples exhibited obvious ferromagnetic behaviors suggesting that saturation magnetization of Zn1-xFexO nano-particles increases with the increasing of Fe doping concentration compared with pure ZnO. Hence the SEM of iron-doped zinc oxide nano-particles consists of ellipsoidal shape particles, which are well dispersed with smooth surface and uniform size.

Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles via Dennettia tripetala Extracts: Optimization, Characterization, and Biological Activity Evaluation

ABSTRACTThis study examined the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) with ethanolic extract from leaf and fruit of Dennettia tripetala (Class: Annonaceae) and the assessment of their biological activities. Mixing of Zn (C2H3O2)2.2H2O solution and the ethanolic extracts resulted in color change, indicating the formation of ZnONPs. pH, temperature, and concentration of metal ions were varied to optimize the amount of nanoparticles formed. Ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐Vis) spectroscopy gave a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 356 nm (DTL‐ZnONPs) and 367 nm (DTF‐ZnONPs), confirming the presence of the synthesized ZnONPs. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows aggregation of spherical and rod‐like shaped nanoparticles. x‐Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis is crystalline in nature with an average crystallite size of 17.17 ((DTL‐ZnONPs) and 12.90 (DTF‐ZnONPs) nm. FT‐IR analysis showed O─H, C═O, N─H, and C─C stretching and aliphatic vibrations of hydrocarbon chains of the synthesized ZnONPs. The ZnONPs gave the maximum zone of inhibition of 18.07 (DTL‐ZnONP) and 17.14 mm (DTF‐ZnONP). Antioxidant activity carried out using DPPH radical scavenging gave an IC50 value of 227.18 (DTL‐ZnONP) and 201.21 (DTF‐ZnONP) µg/mL. Moreover, the cytotoxic effect of ZnONPs is in a concentration‐dependent manner. Therefore, this work showed that ZnONPs are good potential therapeutic agents for treating microbial infection, oxidative stress, and other pertinent disease.

Synergetic Effect of Zinc Oxide and Zirconium Oxide Nanoparticles Concentrations on Antifungal and Physical Properties of Polymethyl Methacrylate Resin (PMMA)–An Invitro Analysis

Synergetic Effect of Zinc Oxide and Zirconium Oxide Nanoparticles Concentrations on Antifungal and Physical Properties of Polymethyl Methacrylate Resin (PMMA)–An Invitro Analysis

Comparative Analysis of Morphological and Structural Properties of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by Sonochemical Method and Microbial Method

Comparative Analysis of Morphological and Structural Properties of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized by Sonochemical Method and Microbial Method

Enhancing the Efficiency of Solar Cells Based on TiO2 and ZnO Photoanodes Through Copper Oxide: A Comparative Study Using Vitis labrusca Extract and N3 Ruthenium Dye

This study investigates the effects of varying CuO doping concentrations on the performance of titanium dioxide (TiO2)-based or zinc oxide (ZnO)-based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). TiO2 or ZnO mixed with CuO at different weight percentages (0–50 wt %) was employed as photoanodes in DSSCs, prepared via mechanical mixing. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the structural changes, showing that as the CuO content increased in the hybrid, the CuO peaks (notably at 35.5° and 38.7°) became more prominent. Morphological and elemental characterizations were conducted using SEM and XRF, respectively. The solar cells were photosensitized by Vitis lasbrusca (V.L.) extract and N3 dye. The presence of anthocyanin molecules in the extracted V.L. was confirmed using UV-VIS and FTIR spectroscopy. The electrochemical characterization demonstrated optimal solar conversion efficiencies at a 20% doping level for both photosensitizers. Specifically, in the V.L. dye, TiO2-CuO achieved a conversion efficiency of 7.18%, and ZnO-CuO reached 5.77%. In the N3 dye, TiO2-CuO showed an efficiency of 11.34%, and ZnO-CuO, 9.55%. Notably, undoped photoanodes displayed a significantly lower photovoltaic performance: for V.L. dye, TiO2 showed 1.12% and ZnO 0.87%; for N3 dye, TiO2 showed 6.02% and ZnO 4.39%. Doping was therefore effective, yielding up to a seven-fold increase in performance in the case of V.L. with TiO2, compared to undoped DSSCs. The results demonstrate that using the hybrid photoanode led to a considerable increase in performance compared to using only TiO2 or ZnO photoanodes, highlighting the potential of DSSCs as sustainable energy sources.

Esterilización de la lesión y reparación tisular con Pasta CTZ en molar permanente con pulpitis irreversible.

advocates the use of an antibiotic mixture instead of root canal instrumentation. Case Report: A 9-year-old female patient sought consultation for spontaneous pain associated with tooth 36, with a sudden and pulsatile onset, which decreased with analgesics and increased at night, during chewing, with thermal and mechanical stimuli, hindering detailed tooth brushing. Clinically, the tooth presented marked opacities associated with an active and cavitated dental caries lesion and post-eruptive fracture. Radiographically, a radiolucent image was observed in the furcation region with open apices and radiolucent areas in the mesial and distal roots. Tooth 36 was diagnosed with severe Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) + symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and symptomatic apical periodontitis. LSTR therapy was performed using a triantibiotic paste based on chloramphenicol, tetracycline, and zinc oxide and eugenol (CTZ Paste). The tooth was restored with a preformed stainless-steel crown using the modified Hall technique. Over the 24-month follow-up, the patient reported no painful symptoms, and no signs of inflammation or infection were observed. Radiographically, there was an increase in root length, apical closure, and bone repair in the furcation and periapical regions. Conclusion: LSTR therapy with CTZ Paste was effective in the treatment of a first permanent molar with irreversible pulpitis.

Effect of annealing temperature onto physical properties of Cu doped ZnO thin films prepared using spray pyrolysis

Abstract Herein we report the effect of annealing on spray-pyrolysis-deposited Cu-doped zinc oxide thin films, with a fixed 3 wt% copper concentration and annealing temperatures of 450 and 500 °C. Various analytical techniques were employed to evaluate the effect of annealed films, which exhibited high stability in physical properties and minimal influence from the annealing process. XRD analysis confirmed that all films maintained a hexagonal ZnO structure without any additional phases, indicating the high purity of the films, with the (002) peak serving as the main diffraction peak for both as-deposited and annealed films. Crystallite size, calculated using the Halder-Wagner equation, revealing an increase from 13.96 nm for the as-deposited film to 14.26 nm for film annealed at 450 °C and 14.65 nm for film annealed at 500 °C. Microstrain values were measured at 2.3 × 10−3, 2.5 × 10−3, and 1.3 × 10−3 for the as-deposited and annealed films. Surface imaging with FE-SEM revealed average grain sizes of 57.25 nm, 68 nm, and 67.8 nm for the as-deposited film and those annealed at 450 °C and 500 °C, respectively. The estimated band gap values were 3.14 eV for the as-deposited films, 3.15 eV for those annealed at 450 °C, and 3.16 eV for films annealed at 500 °C. According to the Spitzer-Fan model, both the density of states and plasma frequency remained constant across the films, while the relaxation time and optical mobility were lowest at 450 °C, where the high-frequency dielectric constant reaches its peak.

Enhanced dust reduction method for solar panels application

Introducing an innovative dual-layer coating technique to enhance solar panel durability against dust, this method uses a translucent aluminum zinc oxide conductive film to prevent accumulation through active dust repulsion. A secondary TiO2-infused coating, applied via a cost-effective sol-gel method, boosts anti-soiling capabilities in a passive manner. Comprehensive tests on dust accumulation, self-cleaning efficiency, mechanical robustness, UV-VIS transmission, and chemical resilience reveal promising results. These coatings improve glass clarity, reduce dust adhesion, and maintain energy production even in calm conditions. The effectiveness relies on the precise concentrations of aluminum nitrate and Titania nanoparticles, with annealing temperature affecting transmission rates. The coatings demonstrate highly desired resistance to both alkaline and acidic environments, ensuring consistent performance across various settings. This durability supports the widespread adoption of solar energy in diverse climates, advancing global sustainable energy efforts.

3D-printed zinc oxide nanoparticles modified barium titanate/hydroxyapatite ultrasound-responsive piezoelectric ceramic composite scaffold for treating infected bone defects

Clinically, infectious bone defects represent a significant threat, leading to osteonecrosis, severely compromising patient prognosis, and prolonging hospital stays. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop a bone graft substitute that combines broad-spectrum antibacterial efficacy and bone-inductive properties, providing an effective treatment option for infectious bone defects. In this study, the precision of digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing technology was utilized to construct a scaffold, incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) modified barium titanate (BT) with hydroxyapatite (HA), resulting in a piezoelectric ceramic scaffold designed for the repair of infected bone defects. The results indicated that the addition of ZnO-NPs significantly improved the piezoelectric properties of BT, facilitating a higher HA content within the ceramic scaffold system, which is essential for bone regeneration. In vitro antibacterial assessments highlighted the scaffold's potent antibacterial capabilities. Moreover, combining the synergistic effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) and piezoelectricity, results demonstrated that the scaffold promoted notable osteogenic and angiogenic potential, enhancing bone growth and repair. Furthermore, transcriptomics analysis results suggested that the early growth response-1 (EGR1) gene might be crucial in this process. This study introduces a novel method for constructing piezoelectric ceramic scaffolds exhibiting outstanding osteogenic, angiogenic, and antibacterial properties under the combined influence of LIPUS, offering a promising treatment strategy for infectious bone defects.

One-pot green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Morus laevigata aqueous extract and evaluation of its anticancer potential against HT-29 cell line

Abstract Colon cancer presents significant challenges in treatment efficiency and patient outcomes, necessitating innovative, effective strategies due to the adverse effects of conventional therapies. The study aimed to investigate the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using aqueous extract of Morus laevigata (ML) leaves and their potential biomedical applications. ML-ZnO NPs were characterized using analytical techniques. The absorption band at 330 nm was detected by UV–Vis spectroscopy, confirming the formation of ML-ZnO NPs. An average size of 68.5 ± 1.85 nm and a negative zeta potential of −11.1 ± 0.98 mV confirm the stability of nanoparticles in colloidal solutions. FTIR analysis confirmed ML-ZnO NPs, with absorption bands corresponding to Zn–O stretching vibrations and aliphatic CH and CH2 groups. SEM examination revealed diverse patterns including cauliflower-like formations. Further anticancer activity of ML-ZnO NPs was assessed through cell viability, cell cycle, and apoptosis assays. ML-ZnO NPs inhibited HT-29 cell growth dose dependently, exceeding cisplatin 56.33 ± 0.87% cell viability. Cell cycle arrest at the G2M phase in HT-29 cells treated with ML-ZnO NPs was noticeable, further validated by apoptosis, which showed large increases in apoptotic cell populations. These results may pave the way for future research investigating the potency of ZnO NPs derived from plant extracts to manage colon cancer.

Retraction Note: Application of zinc oxide nano-tube as drug-delivery vehicles of anticancer drug.

Retraction Note: Application of zinc oxide nano-tube as drug-delivery vehicles of anticancer drug.

Cytotoxic Effects of ZnO and Ag Nanoparticles Synthesized in Microalgae Extracts on PC12 Cells

The green synthesis of silver (Ag) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs), as well as Ag/Ag2O/ZnO nanocomposites (NCs), using polar and apolar extracts of Chlorella vulgaris, offers a sustainable method for producing nanomaterials with tunable properties. The impact of the synthesis environment and the nanomaterials’ characteristics on cytotoxicity was evaluated by examining reactive species production and their effects on mitochondrial bioenergetic functions. Cytotoxicity assays on PC12 cells, a cell line originated from a rat pheochromocytoma, an adrenal medulla tumor, demonstrated that Ag/Ag2O NPs synthesized with apolar (Ag/Ag2O NPs A) and polar (Ag/Ag2O NPs P) extracts exhibited significant cytotoxic effects, primarily driven by Ag+ ion release and the disruption of mitochondrial function. However, it is more likely the organic content, rather than size, influenced anticancer activity, as commercial Ag NPs, despite smaller crystallite sizes, exhibit less effective activity. ZnO NPs P showed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, correlated with higher cytotoxicity, while ZnO NPs A produced lower ROS levels, resulting in diminished cytotoxic effects. A comparative analysis revealed significant differences in LD50 values and toxicity profiles. Differentiated PC12 cells showed higher resistance to ZnO, while AgNPs and Ag/Ag2O-based materials had similar effects on both cell types. This study emphasizes the crucial role of the synthesis environment and bioactive compounds from C. vulgaris in modulating nanoparticle surface chemistry, ROS generation, and cytotoxicity. The results provide valuable insights for designing safer and more effective nanomaterials for biomedical applications, especially for targeting tumor-like cells, by exploring the relationships between nanoparticle size, polarity, capping agents, and nanocomposite structures.