Multi-pathways-mediated mechanisms of selenite reduction and elemental selenium nanoparticles biogenesis in the yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium melanogenum I15.

Selenium (Se) plays a critical role in diverse biological processes and is widely used across manufacturing industries. However, the contamination of Se oxyanions also poses a major public health concern. Microbial transformation is a promising approach to detoxify Se oxyanions and produce elemental selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) with versatile industrial potential. Yeast-like fungi are an important group of environmental microorganisms, but their mechanisms for Se oxyanions reduction remain unknown. In this study, we found that Aureobasidium melanogenum I15 can reduce 1.0 mM selenite by over 90% within 48 h and efficiently form intracellular or extracellular spherical SeNPs. Metabolomic and proteomic analyses disclosed that A. melanogenum I15 evolves a complicated selenite reduction mechanism involving multiple metabolic pathways, including the glutathione/glutathione reductase pathway, the thioredoxin/thioredoxin reductase pathway, the siderophore-mediated pathway, and multiple oxidoreductase-mediated pathways. This study provides the first report on the mechanism of selenite reduction and SeNPs biogenesis in yeast-like fungi and paves an alternative avenue for the bioremediation of selenite contamination and the production of functional organic selenium compounds.

Identification and characterization of silver nanoparticles from Erythrina indica and its antioxidant and Uropathogenic antimicrobial properties.

The plant Erythrina indica comes under Fabaceae family, mainly used for used in traditional medicine as nervine sedative, antiepileptic, antiasthmatic, collyrium in opthalmia, antiseptic. Current study focused synthesize of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by E. indica leaf ethanol extract. The green-synthesized AgNPs underwent characterization using multiple analytical techniques, including UV-visible, FTIR, DLS, SEM, TEM, XRD, and EDX, and estimation of their antioxidant activity and antimicrobial activity. Phytochemical analysis identified alkaloids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and phenols as secondary metabolites. The Total Phenol Content (TPC) was determined to be 237.35 ± 2.02 mg GAE-1, indicating a substantial presence of phenolic compounds. The presence of AgNPs was verified through UV-Visible analysis at 420 nm, and FT-IR revealed characteristic phenolic functional groups. DLS analysis indicated a narrow size distribution (polydispersity index - PDI: 3.47%), with SEM revealing spherical AgNPs of approximately 20 nm. TEM showed homogeneous, highly polycrystalline AgNPs with lattice spacing at 0.297. XRD analysis demonstrated crystallinity and purity, with distinct reflection peaks corresponding to miller indices of JCPDS card no. 01 087 1473. In vitro, AgNPs exhibited robust antioxidant activity like; DPPH, ABTS, and H2O2, surpassing E. indica-assisted synthesis. ABTS assay indicated higher antioxidant activity (81.94 ± 0.05%) for AgNPs at 734 nm, while E. indica extraction showed 39.67 ± 0.07%. At 532 nm, both E. indica extraction (57.71 ± 0.11%) and AgNPs (37.41 ± 0.17%) exhibited H2O2 scavenging. Furthermore, AgNPs displayed significant antimicrobial properties, inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus (15.7 ± 0.12 mm) and Candida albicans (10.7 ± 0.17 mm) byfor the concentration of 80 µg/mL. Through the characterizations underscore of the potential of Erythrina indica-synthesized AgNPs, rich in polyphenolic compounds, for pharmacological, medical, biological applications and antipyretic properties.

Green synthesis of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide and Silver Nanoparticles in Satureja hortensis Leave Extract: Evaluation of Antifungal Effects on Botryosphaeriaceae Species.

In recent years, green synthesis methods of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been attractive because of the more facile, cheaper, and appropriate features associated with biomolecules in MNPs biosynthesis. This research represented an easy, fast, and environmentally friendly method to biosynthesis of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by the Satureja hortensis leaf extract as stabilizer and reducer. The SPIONPs synthesized in co-precipitation method. The biosynthesized SPIONPs and AgNPs were studied their antifungal effects against three Botryosphaeriaceae plant pathogens, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Diplodia seriata, and Neofusicoccum parvum. UV-visible spectra (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (Fe-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM) analyses were used to evaluate the physicochemical properties and verify the formation of green synthesized SPIONPs and AgNPs. UV-Vis spectra revealed absorption peaks at 243 and 448 nm for SPIONs and 436 nm for AgNPs, respectively. Microscopic and XRD analysis showed that SPIONPs and AgNPs was found spherical in shape with an average particle size of SPIONPs and AgNPs 10 and 12 nm, respectively. The antifungal test against Botryosphaeriaceae species showed that SPIONPs and AgNPs possess antifungal properties against B. dothidea, D. seriata, and N. parvum. However, AgNPs exhibits greater antifungal activity than SPIONPs. The results of the cytotoxicity tests of SPIONs and AgNPs on the MCF-7 cell line showed that AgNPs was significantly more cytotoxic towards the MCF-7 cell line, whereas no significant cytotoxic effect was recorded by SPIONs. Therefore, these biosynthesized MNPs could be substituted for toxic fungicides that are extensively applied in agriculture and contribute to environmental health and food safety.

Magnetic aptamer copper nanoclusters fluorescent biosensor for the visual detection of zearalenone based on docking-aided rational tailoring.

To address the food safety issues caused by toxins, we established a fluorescent copper nanocluster biosensor based on magnetic aptamer for the visual and quantitative detection of ZEN. Specifically, we utilized the docking-aided rational tailoring (DART) strategy to analyze intermolecular force and interaction sites between zearalenone (ZEN) and the aptamer, and optimize the long-chain aptamer step by step to enhance the binding affinity by 3.4 times. The magnetic bead-modified aptamer underwent conformational changes when competing with complementary sequences to bind with ZEN. Then, the released complementary sequences will be amplified in template-free mode with the presence of the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT), and generating T-rich sequences as the core sequences for the luminescence of copper nanoclusters. The luminescence could be visualized and quantitatively detected through ultraviolet irradiation. The proposed label-free aptasensor exhibited high sensitivity and specificity, with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.1 ng/mL.

Green-fabricated silver nanoparticles from Quercus incana leaf extract to control the early blight of tomatoes caused by Alternaria solani.

BACKGROUND: Early blight (EB) of Tomatoes, caused by Alternaria solani, is a serious fungal disease that adversely affects tomato production. Infection is characterized by dark lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. Several agrochemicals can be used to control infection, these chemicals may disrupt environmental equilibrium. An alternative technology is needed to address this significant fungal threat. This study was designed to control the growth of EB in tomatoes caused by A. solani, using green-fabricated silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). RESULTS: Ag-NPs were synthesized through an environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach using leaf extract of Quercus incana Roxb. (Fagaceae). The physico-chemical characterization of the Ag-NPs was conducted through UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. The Ag-NPs produced were round with a mean diameter of 27 nm. The antifungal activity of these Ag-NPs was assessed through in vitro Petri plate and in vitro leaflet assays against A. solani. The green fabricated Ag-NPs exhibited excellent antifungal activity in vitro at a concentration of 100 mg/l against A. solani, inhibiting growth by 98.27 ± 1.58% and 92.79 ± 1.33% during Petri plate and leaflet assays, respectively. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study suggests the practical application of green-fabricated Ag-NPs from Q. incana leaf extract against A. solani to effectively control EB disease in tomatoes.

Induction of autophagy-dependent and caspase- and microtubule-acetylation-independent cell death by phytochemical-stabilized gold nanopolygons in colorectal adenocarcinoma cells.

Collective functionalization of the phytochemicals of medicinal herbs on nanoparticles is emerging as a potential cancer therapeutic strategy. This study presents the facile synthesis of surface-functionalized gold nanoparticles using Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi; Bm) phytochemicals and their therapeutically relevant mechanism of action in the colorectal cancer cell line, HT29. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, TEM-EDAX, zeta potential analysis, TGA, FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, and HR-LC-MS. The particles (Bm-GNPs) were of polygonal shape and were stable against aggregation. They entered the target cells and inhibited the viability and clonogenicity of the cells with eight times more antiproliferative efficacy (25 ± 1.5 µg mL-1) than Bm extract (Bm-EX). In vitro studies revealed that Bm-GNPs bind tubulin (a protein crucial in cell division and a target of anticancer drugs) and disrupt its helical structure without grossly altering its tertiary conformation. Like other antitubulin agents, Bm-GNPs induced G2/M arrest and ultimately killed the cells, as confirmed using flow cytometry analyses. ZVAD-FMK-mediated global pan-caspase inhibition and the apparent absence of cleaved caspase-3 in treated cells indicated that the death did not involve the classic apoptosis pathway. Cellular ultrastructure analyses, western immunoblots, and in situ immunofluorescence visualization of cellular microtubules revealed microtubule-acetylation-independent induction of autophagy as the facilitator of cell death. Together, the data indicate strong antiproliferative efficacy and a possible mechanism of action for these designer nanoparticles. Bm-GNPs, therefore, merit further investigations, including preclinical evaluations, for their therapeutic potential as inducers of non-apoptotic cell death.

Simple and sensitive determination of Cr (III), Cu (II) and Pb (II) in tea infusions using AgNPs-modified resin combined with laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy.

The detection of heavy metals in tea infusions is important because of the potential health risks associated with their consumption. Existing highly sensitive detection methods pose challenges because they are complicated and time-consuming. In this study, we developed an innovative and simple method using Ag nanoparticles-modified resin (AgNPs-MR) for pre-enrichment prior to laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for the simultaneous analysis of Cr (III), Cu (II), and Pb (II) in tea infusions. Signal enhancement using AgNPs-MR resulted in amplification with limits of detection of 0.22 µg L-1 for Cr (III), 0.33 µg L-1 for Cu (II), and 1.25 µg L-1 for Pb (II). Quantitative analyses of these ions in infusions of black tea from various brands yielded recoveries ranging from 83.3% to 114.5%. This method is effective as a direct and highly sensitive technique for precisely quantifying trace concentrations of heavy metals in tea infusions.

Untargeted metabolomics and molecular docking studies on green silver nanoparticles synthesized by Sarocladium subulatum: Exploring antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

The biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) with fungi has shown promising results in antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Fungi generate metabolites (both primary and secondary) and proteins, which aid in the formation of metal nanoparticles as reducing or capping agents. While several studies have been conducted on the biological production of Ag-NPs, the exact mechanisms still need to be clarified. In this study, Ag-NPs are synthesized greenly using an unstudied fungal strain, Sarocladium subulatum AS4D. Three silver salts were used to synthesize the Ag-NPs for the first time, optimized using a cell-free extract (CFE) strategy. Additionally, these NPs were assessed for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Various spectroscopic and microscopy techniques were utilized to confirm Ag-NP formation and analyze their morphology, crystalline properties, functional groups, size, stability, and concentrations. Untargeted metabolomics and proteome disruption were employed to explore the synthesis mechanism. Computational tools were applied to predict metabolite toxicity and antibacterial activity. The study identified 40 fungal metabolites capable of reducing silver ions, with COOH and OH functional groups playing a pivotal role. The silver salt type impacted the NPs' size and stability, with sizes ranging from 40 to 52 nm and zeta potentials from -0.9 to -30.4 mV. Proteome disruption affected size and stability but not shape. Biosynthesized Ag-NPs using protein-free extracts ranged from 55 to 62 nm, and zeta potentials varied from -18 to -27 mV. Molecular docking studies and PASS results found no role for the metabolome in antibacterial activity. This suggests the antibacterial activity comes from Ag-NPs, not capping or reducing agents. Overall, the research affirmed the vital role of specific reducing metabolites in the biosynthesis of Ag-NPs, while proteins derived from biological extracts were found to solely affect their size and stability.

Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Althaea officinalis Flower Extract Coated with Chitosan for Potential Healing Effects on Diabetic Wounds by Inhibiting TNF-α and IL-6/IL-1ß Signaling Pathways.

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is a multisystem chronic pandemic, wound inflammation, and healing are still major issues for diabetic patients who may suffer from ulcers, gangrene, and other wounds from uncontrolled chronic hyperglycemia. Marshmallows or Althaea officinalis (A.O.) contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolics that support wound healing via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Our study aimed to develop a combination of eco-friendly formulations of green synthesis of ZnO-NPs by Althaea officinalis extract and further incorporate them into 2% chitosan (CS) gel. Method and Results: First, develop eco-friendly green Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and incorporate them into a 2% chitosan (CS) gel. In-vitro study performed by UV-visible spectrum analysis showed a sharp peak at 390 nm, and Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectrometry showed a peak of zinc and oxygen. Besides, Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) was used to qualitatively validate biosynthesized ZnO-NPs, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed spherical nanoparticles with mean sizes of 76 nm and Zeta potential +30mV. The antibacterial potential of A.O.-ZnO-NPs-Cs was examined by the diffusion agar method against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Based on the zone of inhibition and minimal inhibitory indices (MIC). In addition, an in-silico study investigated the binding affinity of A.O. major components to the expected biological targets that may aid wound healing. Althaea Officinalis, A.O-ZnO-NPs group showed reduced downregulation of IL-6, IL-1ß, and TNF-α and increased IL-10 levels compared to the control group signaling pathway expression levels confirming the improved anti-inflammatory effect of the self-assembly method. In-vivo study and histopathological analysis revealed the superiority of the nanoparticles in reducing signs of inflammation and wound incision in rat models. Conclusion: These biocompatible green zinc oxide nanoparticles, by using Althaea Officinalis chitosan gel ensure an excellent new therapeutic approach for quickening diabetic wound healing.

Phytosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous sandalwood (Santalum album L.) leaf extract: Divergent effects of SW-AgNPs on proliferating plant and cancer cells.

The biogenic approach for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles provides an efficient eco-friendly alternative to chemical synthesis. This study presents a novel route for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous sandalwood (SW) leaf extract as a source of reducing and capping agents under mild, room temperature synthesis conditions. The bioreduction of Ag+ to Ago nanoparticles (SW-AgNPs) was accompanied by the appearance of brown color, with surface plasmon resonance peak at 340-360 nm. SEM, TEM and AFM imaging confirm SW-AgNP's spherical shape with size range of 10-32 nm. DLS indicates a hydrodynamic size of 49.53 nm with predominant negative Zeta potential, which can contribute to the stability of the nanoparticles. FTIR analysis indicates involvement of sandalwood leaf derived polyphenols, proteins and lipids in the reduction and capping of SW-AgNPs. XRD determines the face-centered-cubic crystalline structure of SW-AgNPs, which is a key factor affecting biological functions of nanoparticles. This study is novel in using cell culture methodologies to evaluate effects of SW-AgNPs on proliferating cells originating from plants and human cancer. Exposure of groundnut calli cells to SW-AgNPs, resulted in enhanced proliferation leading to over 70% higher calli biomass over control, enhanced defense enzyme activities, and secretion of metabolites implicated in biotic stress resistance (Crotonyl isothiocyanate, Butyrolactone, 2-Hydroxy-gamma-butyrolactone, Maltol) and plant cell proliferation (dl-Threitol). MTT and NRU were performed to determine the cytotoxicity of nanoparticles on human cervical cancer cells. SW-AgNPs specifically inhibited cervical cell lines SiHa (IC50-2.65 ppm) and CaSki (IC50-9.49 ppm), indicating potential use in cancer treatment. The opposing effect of SW-AgNPs on cell proliferation of plant calli (enhanced cell proliferation) and human cancer cell lines (inhibition) are both beneficial and point to potential safe application of SW-AgNPs in plant cell culture, agriculture and in cancer treatment.

Probiotic-derived silver nanoparticles target mTOR/MMP-9/BCL-2/dependent AMPK activation for hepatic cancer treatment.

Recent advances in nanotechnology have offered novel ways to combat cancer. By utilizing the reducing capabilities of Lactobacillus acidophilus, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are synthesized. The anti-cancer properties of AgNPs have been demonstrated in previous studies against several cancer cell lines; it has been hypothesized that these compounds might inhibit AMPK/mTOR signalling and BCL-2 expression. Consequently, the current research used both in vitro and in silico approaches to study whether Lactobacillus acidophilus AgNPs could inhibit cell proliferation autophagy and promote apoptosis in HepG2 cells. The isolated strain was identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus strain RBIM based on 16 s rRNA gene analysis. Based on our research findings, it has been observed that this particular strain can generate increased quantities of AgNPs when subjected to optimal growing conditions. The presence of silanols, carboxylates, phosphonates, and siloxanes on the surface of AgNPs was confirmed using FTIR analysis. AgNPs were configured using UV-visible spectroscopy at 425 nm. In contrast, it was observed that apoptotic cells exhibited orange-coloured bodies due to cellular shrinkage and blebbing initiated by AgNP treatment, compared to non-apoptotic cells. It is worth mentioning that AgNPs exhibited remarkable selectivity in inducing cell death, specifically in HepG2 cells, unlike normal WI-38 cells. The half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for HepG2 and WI-38 cells were 4.217 µg/ml and 154.1 µg/ml, respectively. AgNPs induce an upregulation in the synthesis of inflammation-associated cytokines, including (TNF-α and IL-33), within HepG2 cells. AgNPs co-treatment led to higher glutathione levels and activating pro-autophagic genes such as AMPK.Additionally, it resulted in the suppression of mTOR, MMP-9, BCL-2, and α-SMA gene expression. The docking experiments suggest that the binding of AgNPs to the active site of the AMPK enzyme leads to inhibiting its activity. The inhibition of AMPK ultimately results in the suppression of the mechanistic mTOR and triggers apoptosis in HepG2 cells. In conclusion, the results of our study indicate that the utilization of AgNPs may represent a viable strategy for the eradication of liver cancerous cells through the activation of apoptosis and the enhancement of immune system reactions.

Plackett-Burman screening of physico-chemical variables affecting Citrus peel-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their antimicrobial activity.

With the growing resistance of pathogenic microbes to traditional drugs, biogenic silver nanoparticles (SNPs) have recently drawn attention as potent antimicrobial agents. In the present study, SNPs synthesized with the aid of orange (Citrus sinensis) peel were engineered by screening variables affecting their properties via Plackett-Burman design. Among the variables screened (temperature, pH, shaking speed, incubation time, peel extract concentration, AgNO3 concentration and extract/AgNO3 volume ratio), pH was the only variable with significant effect on SNPs synthesis. Therefore, SNPs properties could be enhanced to possess highly regular shape with zeta size of 11.44 nm and zeta potential of - 23.7 mV. SNPs purified, capped and stabilized by cloud point extraction technique were then checked for their antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus, Listeria innocua, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium and Candida albicans. The maximum antimicrobial activity of SNPs was recorded against E. coli, L. monocytogenes and C. albicans with clear zone diameter of 33.2, 31.8 and 31.7 mm, respectively. Based on minimum inhibition concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of SNPs (300 mg/l) as well as their effect on respiratory chain dehydrogenases, cellular sugar leakage, protein leakage and lipid peroxidation of microbial cells, E. coli was the most affected. Scanning electron microscopy, protein banding and DNA fragmentation proved obvious ultrastructural and molecular alterations of E. coli treated with SNPs. Thus, biogenic SNPs with enhanced properties can be synthesized with the aid of Citrus peel; and such engineered nanoparticles can be used as potent antimicrobial drug against E. coli.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles and Klebsiella sp. SBP-8 alleviates chromium toxicity in Brassica juncea by regulation of antioxidant capacity, osmolyte production, nutritional content and reduction in chromium adsorption.

Heavy metals are one of the most damaging environmental toxins that hamper growth of plants. These noxious chemicals include lead (Pb), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr). Chromium is one of the toxic metal which induces various oxidative processes in plants. The emerging role of nanoparticles as pesticides, fertilizers and growth regulators have attracted the attention of various scientists. Current study was conducted to explore the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) alone and in combination with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) Klebsiella sp. SBP-8 in Cr stress alleviation in Brassica juncea (L.). Chromium stress reduced shoot fresh weight (40%), root fresh weight (28%), shoot dry weight (28%) and root dry weight (34%) in B. juncea seedlings. Chromium stressed B. juncea plants showed enhanced levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), electrolyte leakage (EL), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide ion (O2• -). However, co-supplementation of ZnONPs and Klebsiella sp. SBP-8 escalated the activity of antioxidant enzymes i.e., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in B. juncea grown in normal and Cr-toxic soil. It is further proposed that combined treatment of ZnONPs and Klebsiella sp. SBP-8 may be useful for alleviation of other abiotic stresses in plants.

A breakthrough in phytochemical profiling: ultra-sensitive surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy platform for detecting bioactive components in medicinal and edible plants.

A perennial challenge in harnessing the rich biological activity of medicinal and edible plants is the accurate identification and sensitive detection of their active compounds. In this study, an innovative, ultra-sensitive detection platform for plant chemical profiling is created using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology. The platform uses silver nanoparticles as the enhancing substrate, excess sodium borohydride prevents substrate oxidation, and methanol enables the tested molecules to be better adsorbed onto the silver nanoparticles. Subsequently, nanoparticle aggregation to form stable "hot spots" is induced by Ca2+, and the Raman signal of the target molecule is strongly enhanced. At the same time, deuterated methanol was used as the internal standard for quantitative determination. The method has excellent reproducibility, RSD ≤ 1.79%, and the enhancement factor of this method for the detection of active ingredients in the medicinal plant Coptis chinensis was 1.24 × 109, with detection limits as low as 3 fM. The platform successfully compared the alkaloid distribution in different parts of Coptis chinensis: root > leaf > stem, and the difference in content between different batches of Coptis chinensis decoction was successfully evaluated. The analytical technology adopted by the platform can speed up the determination of Coptis chinensis and reduce the cost of analysis, not only making better use of these valuable resources but also promoting development and innovation in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This study provides a new method for the development, evaluation, and comprehensive utilization of both medicinal and edible plants. It is expected that this method will be extended to the modern rapid detection of other medicinal and edible plants and will provide technical support for the vigorous development of the medicinal and edible plants industry.

Cyanobacteria Based Nanoformulation of Biogenic CuO Nanoparticles for Plant Growth Promotion of Rice Under Hydroponics Conditions.

Synthesizing nanoparticles through a green synthesis approach is common nowadays. Cyanobacteria have attained great importance in the field of biosynthesis of nanoparticles as there is no use of toxic chemicals as reducing or capping agents for the synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles. Micronutrient-based nano-formulations have become a topic of great interest in recent times due to their various advantageous properties and applications in agriculture. The current study aims to exploit the potential cyanobacterial strains isolated from different locations such as freshwater and soil ecosystems. The potential cyanobacterial isolates were screened based on their multiple plant growth promoting (PGP) attributes such as Indol acetic acid (IAA) production, siderophores, and phosphate solubilization. After the screening of cyanobacteria based on multiple PGP activities, the cyanobacterial strain was identified at the species level as Pseudanabaena foetida RJ1, based on microscopy and molecular characterization using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The cyanobacterial biomass extract and cell-free extracts are utilized for the synthesis of CuO micronutrient Nanoparticles (NPs). The cyanobacterial strain Pseudanabaena foetida RJ1 possesses plant growth-promoting (PGP) attributes that provide reduction and capping for CuO NPs. The synthesized NPs were characterized and subjected to make a nano-formulation, utilizing the cyanobacteria-mediated CuO NPs along with low-cost zeolite as an adsorbent. The application of cyanobacterial biomass extract and cell-free extract provided an excellent comparative aspect in terms of micronutrient NP synthesis. The NPs in the form of formulations were applied to germinated paddy seeds (Pusa Basmati -1509) with varying concentrations (5, 10, 15 mg/l). Effects of cyanobacteria based CuO NPs on hydroponically grown paddy crops were analyzed. The application of nano-formulations has shown a significant increase in plant growth promotion in rice plants under hydroponics conditions. There is no such type of comparative investigation reported earlier, and NPs of micronutrients can be utilized as a new economic nanofertilizer and can be applied to plants for their growth promotion.

Synthesis of Ottonia anisum Extract Mediated ZnO NPs and Their Local Anesthetic, Analgesic and HCl­induced Acute Lung Injury Activities.

In this study, we outlined the green synthesis of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using the plant-mediated method. Employing the nitrate derivative of Zinc and the extract from the native medicinal plant, Ottonia anisum, the nanoparticles were effectively produced. After obtaining a yellow-colored paste, it was meticulously dried, gathered, and set aside for subsequent examination. The UV-visible spectrometry analysis indicated an absorption peak at 320 nm, which is indicative of ZnO NPs. Characterization techniques, such as XRD and HR-TEM, confirmed the existence of agglomerated ZnO NPs with an average diameter of 40 nm. Through EDS analysis, distinct energy signals for both Zinc and Oxygen were observed, confirming their composition. Furthermore, FT-IR spectroscopy highlighted an absorption peak for Zn-O bonding in the range of 400 to 600 cm -1 . Further, we employed three distinct pain models in mice to evaluate the influence of ZnO NPs on the nociceptive threshold. Our findings revealed that, when orally administered, ZnO NPs at concentrations ranging from 5-20 mg/kg exerted a dose-dependent analgesic effect in both the hot-plate and the acetic acid-induced writhing tests. Moreover, when ZnO NPs were administered at doses between 2.5-10 mg/kg, there was a notable reduction in pain responses during both the initial and subsequent phases of the formalin test, but no change in PGE 2 production within the mice's hind paw was found. On the other hand, acute lung injury studies revealed that the administration of ZnO NPs orally 90 minutes prior to HCl instillation decreased the neutrophil infiltration into the lungs in a doseresponsive manner. This reduction in pulmonary inflammation was paralleled by a significant decrease in lung edema, as evidenced by the reduced total protein content in the BALF. Additionally, the ZnO NPs appeared to recalibrate the lung's redox equilibrium following HCl exposure, which was determined through measurements of ROS, malondialdehyde, glutathione, and catalase activity. All these results further indicated the potential of biofabricated ZnO NPs for future applications in analgesics and acute lung injury treatments.

Unveiling the silver lining: examining the effects of biogenic silver nanoparticles on the growth dynamics of in vitro olive shoots.

The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on growth behavior and leaf anatomy of in vitro growing shoots of 'Picual' and 'Dolce' olive cultivars. Biosynthesis of AgNPs was carried out using the cell-free filtrate of Fusarium oxysporum. The dimension and shape of the synthesized AgNPs have been analyzed using spectroscopy and topography analysis tools, confirming that the biosynthesis of AgNPs is a crystalline nanostructure with an average particle size of 37 nm. The shoots of the selected olive cultivars were cultured on Rugini olive medium-supplemented AgNPs at 0, 10, 20, and 30mg L- 1. The effect of genotypes on shoot multiplication was significant, 'Picual' recorded higher values of shoot growth parameters compared with 'Dolce' cultivar. Adding AgNPs to the culture medium significantly affected the growth of in vitro olive shoots. AgNPs at 20 and 30mg L- 1 produced higher values of the number of shoots, shoot length, and leaf number of Picual cv. compared with the control treatments, but the higher AgNPs concentration harmed the growth parameters of Dolce cv. and recorded lower growth values compared with the lower concentration (10mg L- 1). AgNPs had a significant effect on leaf morphology and their anatomical structure. The current results showed that the stimulatory effect of AgNPs on shoot growth of in vitro olive shoots is highly dependent on plant genotype and nanoparticle concentration.

Albumin-coated green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoflowers inhibit skin melanoma cells growth via intra-cellular oxidative stress.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) has attracted a substantial interest in cancer research owing to their promising utility in cancer imaging and therapy. This study aimed to synthesized ZnO nanoflowers coated with albumin to actively target and the inhibit skin melanoma cells. We synthesized bovine serum albumin (BSA)-coated ZnO nanoflowers (BSA@ZnO NFs) and evaluated it's in vitro and in vivo therapeutic efficacy for skin cancer cells. BSA@ZnO NFs were prepared via single-step reduction method in the presence of plant extract (Heliotropium indicum) act as a capping agent, and further the successful fabrication was established by various physico-chemical characterizations, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and x-rays diffraction (XRD) analysis. The fabricated BSA@ZnO NFs appeared flower like with multiple cone-shaped wings and average hydration size of 220.8 ± 12.6 nm. Further, BSA@ZnO NFs showed enhanced cellular uptake and cytocidal effects against skin cancer cells by inhibiting their growth via oxidative stress compared uncoated ZnO NFs. Moreover, BSA@ZnO NFs showed enhance biosafety, blood circulation time, tumor accumulation and in vivo tumor growth inhibition compared to ZnO NFs. In short, our findings suggesting BSA@ZnO NFs as a promising candidate for various types of cancer treatment along with chemotherapy.

Unveiling the antibacterial and antifungal potential of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from Chromolaena odorata leaves.

This research investigates the biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata (Asteraceae) and their potential as antibacterial and antifungal agents. Characterization techniques like ultraviolet-visible, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Dynamic light scattering and zeta potential (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX) confirmed the formation of spherical (AgNPs). UV-vis spectroscopy reaffirms AgNP formation with a peak at 429 nm. DLS and zeta potential measurements revealed an average size of 30.77 nm and a negative surface charge (- 0.532 mV). Further, XRD analysis established the crystalline structure of the AgNPs. Moreover, the TEM descriptions indicate that the AgNPs are spherical shapes, and their sizes ranged from 9 to 22 nm with an average length of 15.27 nm. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis validated the formation of metallic silver and elucidated the surface state composition of AgNPs. Biologically, CO-AgNPs showed moderate antibacterial activity but excellent antifungal activity against Candida tropicalis (MCC 1559) and Trichophyton rubrum (MCC 1598). Low MIC values (0.195 and 0.390 mg/mL) respectively, suggest their potential as effective antifungal agents. This suggests potential applications in controlling fungal infections, which are often more challenging to treat than bacterial infections. Molecular docking results validated that bioactive compounds in C. odorata contribute to antifungal activity by interacting with its specific domain. Further research could pave the way for the development of novel and safe antifungal therapies based on biogenic nanoparticles.

Bacteria-mediated green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their antifungal potentials against Aspergillus flavus.

The best biocontroller Bacillus subtilis produced silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with a spherical form and a 62 nm size through green synthesis. Using UV-vis spectroscopy, PSA, and zeta potential analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the properties of synthesized silver nanoparticles were determined. Silver nanoparticles were tested for their antifungicidal efficacy against the most virulent isolate of the Aspergillus flavus fungus, JAM-JKB-BHA-GG20, and among the 10 different treatments, the treatment T6 [PDA + 1 ml of NP (19: 1)] + Pathogen was shown to be extremely significant (82.53%). TG-51 and GG-22 were found to be the most sensitive groundnut varieties after 5 and 10 days of LC-MS QTOF infection when 25 different groundnut varieties were screened using the most toxic Aspergillus flavus isolate JAM- JKB-BHA-GG20, respectively. In this research, the most susceptible groundnut cultivar, designated GG-22, was tested. Because less aflatoxin (1651.15 g.kg-1) was observed, treatment T8 (Seed + Pathogen + 2 ml silver nanoparticles) was determined to be much more effective. The treated samples were examined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry for the detection of metal ions and the fungicide carbendazim. Ag particles (0.8 g/g-1) and the fungicide carbendazim (0.025 g/g-1) were found during Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry analysis below detectable levels. To protect plants against the invasion of fungal pathogens, environmentally friendly green silver nanoparticle antagonists with antifungal properties were able to prevent the synthesis of mycotoxin by up to 82.53%.