Herbal-Based Green Synthesis of TB-ZnO-TiO(II) Nanoparticles Composite From Terminalia bellirica: Characterization, Toxicity Assay, Antioxidant Assay, and Antimicrobial Activity.

Background Terminalia bellirica leaf extract was used as an herbal to get an aqueous extract of Tb-ZnO-TiO2 (zinc and titanium dioxide) nanoparticles composite, and this was subsequently subjected to an analysis of its antioxidant properties and possible antimicrobial activity against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Employing the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and hydrogen peroxide assay techniques for antioxidant properties. In addition to their biocompatibility, rapid biodegradability, and low toxicity, herbal-based nanoparticles (Tb-ZnO-TiO2 NPs composite) synthesized by T. bellirica have drawn a lot of interest as promising options for administering drugs and effective antimicrobial applications. Materials and methods The form and dimensions of the dispersion of the synthesized nanoparticles were investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and UV-visible for particle characterization. Nanoparticles were analyzed for antimicrobial activity using the well diffusion method. Ascorbic acid and vitamin E were used as two separate controls for antioxidant assay with different concentrations, and also toxicity assay was done by using zebrafish embryos. Results Tb-ZnO-TiO2 NPs composite were obtained as a powder, the X-beam diffraction (XRD) result revealed a small quantity of impurities and revealed that the structure was spherical in nature. A unique absorption peak for Tb-ZnO-TiO2 NPs composite may be seen in UV-Vis spectroscopy which is in the region of 260 to 320 nm. The Tb-ZnO-TiO2 NPs composite antibacterial efficacy was evaluated and showed noted antibacterial activity and free radical scavenging activity with less toxicity. Conclusion The results demonstrated the Tb-ZnO-TiO2 NPs composite has strong antioxidant qualities and enormous antibacterial activity obtained from T. bellirica extract. Therefore, the Tb-ZnO-TiO2 NPs composite synthesized nanoparticles can be used in biomedical applications as an effective antioxidant and antibacterial reagent.

Comparative Antioxidant Efficacy of Green-Synthesised Selenium Nanoparticles From Pongamia pinnata, Citrus sinensis, and Acacia auriculiformis: An In Vitro Analysis.

Aim This study aims to synthesise selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using extracts from Citrus sinensis peel (CSP), Millettia pinnata Leaf (MPL), and Acacia auriculiformis bark (AAB) as eco-friendly reducing agents. It seeks to compare the effectiveness of these plant extracts in the production of SeNPs and evaluate the antioxidant activities of the synthesised nanoparticles, establishing a link between the phytochemical constituents of the extracts and the antioxidant capacity of SeNPs for their potential applications in drug development and environmental sustainability. Introduction Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions in various fields, including medicine, environmental science, and materials engineering. SeNPs are of particular interest due to their unique properties and potential applications. The methods for synthesizing nanoparticles often involve hazardous chemicals, posing risks to the environment and human health. In response, green synthesis methods utilizing plant extracts have emerged as a sustainable alternative. This study focuses on utilizing CSP, MPL, and AAB extracts, rich in natural reducing agents such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, for the eco-friendly synthesis of SeNPs. These plant sources are chosen based on their known phytochemical profiles and potential antioxidant activities, and we aim to explore the correlation between the extracts' phytochemical composition and the antioxidant capabilities of the synthesised SeNPs. Methods SeNPs were synthesised using aqueous extracts of CSP, MPL, and AAB through a reduction process, in which selenium ions (Se4+) are reduced to elemental selenium. The presence of SeNPs was first visually monitored by colour change and then confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analyses. The antioxidant activity of the synthesised SeNPs was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and the efficacy of SeNPs synthesised from different plant extracts was compared. Results The UV-Vis spectral analysis indicated a successful synthesis of SeNPs, as evidenced by the characteristic absorption peaks. The FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of organic molecules derived from the plant components on the outer layer of SeNPs, suggesting successful capping and stabilization of nanoparticles by phytochemicals in the extracts. Among the three types of SeNPs, those synthesised using Citrus sinensis peel extract (CSPE) exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, indicating superior antioxidant properties compared to SeNPs synthesised from Millettia pinnata leaf extract (MPLE) and Acacia auriculiformis bark extract (AABE). This suggests that the antioxidant capacity of SeNPs is significantly influenced by the phytochemical composition of the plant extract used for synthesis. Conclusion The study highlights the potential of CSPE as an effective natural source for synthesising antioxidant-rich SeNPs and underscores the importance of green synthesis approaches in producing environmentally friendly and biologically active nanomaterials.

Analysing the Anticancer Properties of Pterostilbene Through Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) and Molecular Docking Studies.

Aim The aim of this study is to examine the possible therapeutic effect of pterostilbene (PTS), a chemical present in grapes and blueberries, in the treatment of liver cancer by analysing its interactions with important proteins linked to the wingless/integrated (Wnt) signaling system. Objective Using computational techniques like molecular docking and absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) studies, this research focuses on examining the pharmacokinetics and molecular interactions of PTS with proteins such as vimentin (Vim), glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3-ß), epithelial cadherin (E-cadherin), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and Wnt, all of which are connected to the Wnt signaling pathway in liver cancer. Methods The study includes the synthesis of proteins and ligands, ADME investigations for PTS, and AutoDock Vina molecular docking simulations to evaluate binding affinities and interactions. PTS is obtained from PubChem, while protein structures are obtained from the Protein Data Bank. Results Strong binding affinities between PTS and essential proteins in the Wnt signaling cascade are shown by molecular docking, which also highlights noteworthy hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and electrostatic contacts. According to an ADME study, PTS has advantageous pharmacokinetic properties, such as moderate solubility, membrane permeability, and a minimal chance of drug interactions. Conclusion The extensive study highlights PTS's potential as a viable treatment option for liver cancer. The study promotes its investigation in cutting-edge liver cancer therapy approaches and urges more investigation into the molecular mechanisms, underpinning its anticancer properties. This paper sheds important light on the role of natural chemicals in cancer therapy and emphasizes the need for computational methods in drug discovery.

Correction: Exploration of Whitlockite Nanostructures for Hemostatic Applications.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58701.].

Exploration of Whitlockite Nanostructures for Hemostatic Applications.

Background Calcium magnesium phosphate (CMP)-based whitlockite is a promising biomaterial for hemostasis and regenerative applications. Regenerative approaches aim to advance tissue repair and recovery in different clinical scenarios. Whitlockite is a biocompatible and biodegradable mineral that has garnered impressive consideration for its interesting properties, making it an appealing candidate for therapeutic applications. Aim This study aimed to evaluate the hemostatic behavior of synthesized whitlockite nanoparticles. Materials and methods Coprecipitation and hydrothermal methods were used to synthesize whitlockite nanoparticles. Calcium nitrate, magnesium nitrate, and diammonium hydrogen phosphate were used as precursors to prepare this material. Results Crystalline phases of whitlockite (Ca3Mg)3(PO4) and calcium magnesium phosphate Ca7Mg2P6O2 were observed through X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, along with relevant properties of the phosphate functional group detected through Raman spectra. This study explores the hemostatic adequacy of CMP-based whitlockite using different methodologies. The capacity of the materials to actuate platelet conglomeration and encourage clot arrangement is assessed using in vitro experiments. Moreover, this study investigates the regenerative potential of CMP-based whitlockite in tissue-building applications. Conclusion The structural and morphological parameters provide crucial insights into the proper formation of the material, and the hemoclot assessment aids in understanding its coagulation behavior. Future investigations and clinical trials will be instrumental in fully harnessing the potential of CMP-based whitlockite for advancing hemostasis and regenerative medicine.

Comparative Bioactivity Analysis of Green-Synthesized Metal (Cobalt, Copper, and Selenium) Nanoparticles.

Aim This study involves synthesizing metal nanoparticles (NPs) via the green synthesis method using Millettia pinnata leaf, Acacia auriculiformis bark, and Citrus sinensis peel and comparatively evaluating their antibacterial activity in vitro through the analysis of cobalt oxide NPs (CoNPs), copper NPs (CuNPs), and selenium NPs (SeNPs). This research contributes to eco-friendly approaches for producing functional nanomaterials with potential applications in medicine and environmental remediation. Materials and methods The metal NPs were synthesized using M. pinnata leaf, A. auriculiformis bark, and C. sinensis peel. These leaf extracts act as self-reducing and stabilizing agents. The antibacterial activity was assessed by the well diffusion method. Cultures of pathogenic bacteria species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were prepared. NPs were applied to the culture, and zones of inhibition (ZOIs) were measured. The data were statistically analyzed to compare the antibacterial efficacy of the different NPs. Results The successfully synthesized CoNPs, CuNPs, and SeNPs showed distinctive phytochemical properties. CoNPs exhibited the highest ZOI against most bacterial strains, with CuNPs and SeNPs following. CoNPs consistently showed superior performance compared to CuNPs and SeNPs. Conclusion Our study analyzed the bioactivity of metal NPs produced using green synthesis with plant extracts. CoNPs have shown superior antibacterial effectiveness against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria when compared to CuNPs and SeNPs. This may be due to their larger surface area, smaller size, unique electrical, magnetic, and catalytic properties, as well as their improved contact with the bacterial cell wall and membrane.

Molecular Docking and Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) Analysis: Examining the Binding Modes and Affinities of Myricetin With Insulin Receptor, Glycogen Synthase Kinase, and Glucokinase.

Aim By using molecular docking analysis (MDA) to examine its interactions with important regulatory proteins linked to diabetes, such as glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3ß), insulin receptor (IR), and glucose kinase (GCK), this study seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of myricetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid. Objective The main goal is to determine potential effects on insulin signalling, GSK3ß activity, and glucose metabolism by evaluating the binding affinities of myricetin with GCK, IR, and GSK3ß through MDA. In order to assess the drug affinity of myricetin, the study also intends to perform absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) studies. Materials and methods To model the interaction between myricetin and the target proteins (GCK, IR, and GSK3ß), we used molecular docking analysis with computational tools. ADME studies were also included in the study to evaluate drug affinity. Identification of binding sites, essential residues, and interaction stability were all part of the structural analysis. Results As evidence of possible interactions with these regulatory proteins, myricetin showed positive binding affinities with GCK, IR, and GSK3ß. Strong interactions with important ligand recognition residues were seen in the docking into IR, indicating a potential impact on insulin signalling. Moreover, a strong binding affinity for GCK indicated potential effects on the metabolism of glucose. Studies using ADME confirmed the high drug affinity of myricetin. Conclusion This work sheds light on the multi-target potential of myricetin in the regulation of diabetes. It appears that it has the ability to influence glucose metabolism, suppress GSK3ß activity, and regulate insulin signalling based on its interactions with IR, GSK3ß, and GCK. Although these computational results show promise, more experimental work is necessary to confirm and fully understand the precise mechanisms that underlie myricetin's effects on the regulation of diabetes.

Gold-like Thiolate-Protected Ultrasmall Cubic Copper Nanocluster-Based Metal-Organic Framework as a Selective Catalyst for Stepwise Synthesis of Unsymmetric Bistriazole by Click Reaction.

We report a facile synthesis of a thiolate-protected water-soluble ultrasmall cubic copper nanocluster-based metal-organic framework (CuMOF) as an efficient and chemoselective catalyst for the azide-alkyne click reaction. Interestingly, the diffuse reflectance spectra of CuMOFs exhibit three discrete plasmon bands at 463, 505, and 674 nm, which are similar to those corresponding to the fingerprint region of thiolate-protected atomically precise Au25 nanoclusters; hence, CuMOFs are termed as gold-like ultrasmall cubic copper nanoclusters. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirm the cubic morphology of CuMOFs with nanoclusters showing particle size distribution of ∼2-12 nm. The matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) spectrum of CuMOFs is attributed to the individual particles consisting of few Cun(SR)m with Cu(0) core atoms and Cu(I)SR staples, i.e., Cu2(SR)4, Cu(SR)6, Cu3(SR)7, and Cu4(SR)8. To our surprise, the unsymmetric bistriazoles resulting from the click reaction of bifunctional azides and alkynes in the presence of CuMOFs were achieved by step-by-step conversion of the terminal azide selectively with maximum yield in the range of 70-88%. The nitrogen adsorption-desorption studies confirm the size-dependent surface area, pore volume, and pore size for the CuMOFs prepared by varying metal-to-ligand ratios. The plausible mechanism for the selective mono-click at CuMOFs suggests the existence of bifunctional terminal interactions via thiol and sulfonate groups that might have provided the site-isolation-based active sites for selective catalysis. The easy recovery of CuMOFs and their reusability up to 5 times without significant loss of activity are very promising for the selective organic conversions in pharmaceutical and industrial formulations.