Ferula latisecta gels for synthesis of zinc/silver binary nanoparticles: antibacterial effects against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and physicochemical characteristics.

This study explores the potential antibacterial applications of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) enhanced with silver (Ag) using plant gel (ZnO-AgO NPs). The problem addressed is the increasing prevalence of pathogenic bacteria and the need for new, effective antimicrobial agents. ZnO NPs possess distinctive physicochemical properties that enable them to selectively target bacterial cells. Their small size and high surface area-to-volume ratio allow efficient cellular uptake and interaction with bacterial cells. In this study, the average size of the synthesized ZnO-Ag nanoparticles was 77.1 nm, with a significant standard deviation of 33.7 nm, indicating a wide size distribution. The nanoparticles demonstrated remarkable antibacterial efficacy against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, with inhibition zones of 14.33 mm for E. coli and 15.66 mm for B. subtilis at a concentration of 300 µg/ml. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined to be 100 µg/ml for E. coli and 75 µg/ml for S. saprophyticus. Additionally, ZnO-Ag NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility, making them appropriate for various pharmacological uses. This study utilizes Ferula latisecta gels, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to nanoparticle synthesis. Incorporating of Ag into ZnO NPs significantly enhances their antimicrobial properties, with the combined results showing great inhibition effects on pathogenic microbes. The findings suggest that ZnO-Ag NPs could be a promising candidate for addressing the challenges posed by drug-resistant bacterial infections and enhancing antimicrobial treatments.

Utilizing bio-synthesis of nanomaterials as biological agents for controlling soil-borne diseases in pepper plants: root-knot nematodes and root rot fungus.

The utilization of Trichoderma longibrachiatum filtrate as a safe biocontrol method for producing zinc nanoparticles is a promising approach for managing pests and diseases in agricultural crops. The identification of Trichoderma sp. was achieved through PCR amplification and sequencing of 18s as ON203115, while the synthesis of ZnO-NPs was accomplished by employing Trichoderma filtration. The presence of ZnO-NPs was confirmed by observing a color change to dark green, along with the use of visible and UV spectrophotometers, and the formation and chemical structure of ZnO-NPs were examined. Direct exposure to ZnO-NPs exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of Fusarium oxysporum at 80.73% compared with control. Also, the percent mortality of Meloidogyne incognita second juveniles stage (J2s) results showed 11.82%, 37.63%, 40.86%, and 89.65% after 6, 12, 24, and 72 h, respectively in vitro. Disease resistance was assessed in the greenhouse against M. incognita and F. oxysporum using the drench application of ZnO-NPs. The application of ZnO-NPs significantly reduced the disease severity of F. oxysporum and improved the quality and quantity of sweet pepper yield. In addition, the application of ZnO-NPs to M. incognita resulted in a significant reduction in the number of nematode galls, egg masses per root, eggs/egg mass, and females by 98%, 99%, 99.9%, and 95.5% respectively.Furthermore, it was observed that the application of ZnO-NPs to pepper plants not only inhibited the growth of F. oxysporum and M. incognita, but also promoted the recovery of pepper plants as indicated by improvements in stem length by 106%, root length 102%, fresh weight 112%, root fresh weight 107%, and leaf area 118% compared to healthy control plants. Additionally, real-time PCR application and DD-PCR technique revealed that the application of ZnO-NPs stimulated the secretion of certain enzymes. These findings suggest that the biosynthesized ZnO-NPs possess anti-nematode and antifungal properties, making them effective for protecting plants against M. incognita and F. oxysporum invasion in soil. This study significantly contributes to our understanding of the nematicidal and fungicidal activities of ZnO-NPs in suppressing soil-borne diseases.

Green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles by Enterobacter sp.: unveiling characterization, antimicrobial potency, and alleviation of copper stress in Vicia faba (L.) plants.

BACKGROUND: The biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Enterobacter sp. and the evaluation of their antimicrobial and copper stress (Cu+ 2)-reducing capabilities in Vicia faba (L.) plants. The green-synthesized ZnO NPs were validated using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD); Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR), Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. ZnO NPs could serve as an improved bactericidal agent for various biological applications. as well as these nanoparticles used in alleviating the hazardous effects of copper stress on the morphological and physiological traits of 21-day-old Vicia faba (L.) plants. RESULTS: The results revealed that different concentrations of ZnO NPs (250, 500, or 1000 mg L-1) significantly alleviated the toxic effects of copper stress (100 mM CuSO4) and increased the growth parameters, photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm), and pigments (Chlorophyll a and b) contents in Cu-stressed Vicia faba (L.) seedlings. Furthermore, applying high concentration of ZnO NPs (1000 mg L-1) was the best dose in maintaining the levels of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, and POX), total soluble carbohydrates, total soluble proteins, phenolic and flavonoid in all Cu-stressed Vicia faba (L.) seedlings. Additionally, contents of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were significantly suppressed in response to high concentrations of ZnO NPs (1000 mg L-1) in all Cu-stressed Vicia faba (L.) seedlings. Also, it demonstrates strong antibacterial action (0.9 mg/ml) against various pathogenic microorganisms. CONCLUSIONS: The ZnO NPs produced in this study demonstrated the potential to enhance plant detoxification and tolerance mechanisms, enabling plants to better cope with environmental stress. Furthermore, these nanoparticles could serve as an improved bactericidal agent for various biological applications.

Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) by Streptomyces baarnensis and its active metabolite (Ka): a promising combination against multidrug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens and cytotoxicity.

Various eco-friendly techniques are being researched for synthesizing ZnO-NPs, known for their bioactivity. This study aimed at biosynthesizing ZnO-NPs using Streptomyces baarnensis MH-133, characterizing their physicochemical properties, investigating antibacterial activity, and enhancement of their efficacy by combining them with a water-insoluble active compound (Ka) in a nanoemulsion form. Ka is a pure compound of 9-Ethyl-1,4,6,9,10-pentahydroxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrotetracene-5,12-dione obtained previously from our strain of Streptomyces baarnensis MH-133. Biosynthesized ZnO-NPs employing Streptomyces baarnensis MH-133 filtrate and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4.7H2O) as a precursor were purified and characterized by physicochemical investigation. High-resolution-transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) verified the effective biosynthesis of ZnO-NPs (size < 12 nm), whereas dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis showed an average size of 17.5 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) exhibited characteristic diffraction patterns that confirmed crystalline structure. ZnO-NPs efficiently inhibited both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (MICs: 31.25-125 µg/ml). The pure compound (Ka) was combined with ZnO-NPs to improve effectiveness and reduce dose using checkerboard microdilution. Niteen treatments of Ka and ZnO-NPs combinations obtained by checkerboard matrix inhibited Klebsiella pneumonia. Eleven combinations had fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICi) between 1.03 and 2, meaning indifferent, another five combinations resulted from additive FICi (0.625-1) and only one combination with FICi of 0.5, indicating synergy. In the case of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Ka-ZnO-NPs combinations yielded 23 treatments with varying degrees of interaction. The results showed eleven treatments with indifferent interaction, eight additive interactions, and two synergies with FICi of 0.5 and 0.375. The combinations that exhibited synergy action were transformed into a nanoemulsion form to improve their solubility and bioavailability. The HR-TEM analysis of the nanoemulsion revealed spherical oil particles with a granulated core smaller than 200 nm and no signs of aggregation. Effective dispersion was confirmed by DLS analysis which indicated that Ka-ZnO-NPs nanoemulsion droplets have an average size of 53.1 nm and a polydispersity index (PI) of 0.523. The killing kinetic assay assessed the viability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and K. pneumonia post-treatment with Ka-ZnO-NPs combinations either in non-formulated or nanoemulsion form. Results showed Ka-ZnO-NPs combinations show concentration and time-dependent manner, with higher efficacy in nanoemulsion form. The findings indicated that Ka-ZnO-NPs without formulation at MIC values killed K. pneumonia after 24 h but not MRSA. Our nanoemulsion loaded with the previously mentioned combinations at MIC value showed bactericidal effect at MIC concentration of Ka-ZnO-NPs combination after 12 and 18 h of incubation against MRSA and K. pneumonia, respectively, compared to free combinations. At half MIC value, nanoemulsion increased the activity of the combinations to cause a bacteriostatic effect on MRSA and K. pneumonia after 24 h of incubation. The free combination showed a bacteriostatic impact for 6 h before the bacteria regrew to increase log10 colony forming unit (CFU)/ml over the initial level. Similarly, the cytotoxicity study revealed that the combination in nanoemulsion form decreased the cytotoxicity against kidney epithelial cells of the African green monkey (VERO) cell line. The IC50 for Ka-ZnO-NPs non-formulated treatment was 8.17/1.69 (µg/µg)/ml, but in nano-emulsion, it was 22.94 + 4.77 (µg/µg)/mL. In conclusion, efficient Ka-ZnO-NPs nanoemulsion may be a promising solution for the fighting of ESKAPE pathogenic bacteria according to antibacterial activity and low toxicity.

Revolutionizing healthcare: Harnessing nano biotechnology with zinc oxide nanoparticles to combat biofilm and bacterial infections-A short review.

A crucial pathogenic mechanism in many bacterial diseases is the ability to create biofilms. Biofilms are suspected to play a role in over 80 % of microbial illnesses in humans. In light of the critical requirement for efficient management of bacterial infections, researchers have explored alternative techniques for treating bacterial disorders. One of the most promising ways to address this issue is through the development of long-lasting coatings with antibacterial properties. In recent years, antibacterial treatments based on metallic nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as an effective strategy in the fight over bacterial drug resistance. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are the basis of a new composite coating material. This article begins with a brief overview of the mechanisms that underlie bacterial resistance to antimicrobial drugs. A detailed examination of the properties of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) and their potential use as antibacterial drugs for curing drug-sensitive and resistant bacteria follows. Furthermore, we assess metal nanoparticles (NPs) as powerful agents to fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the growth of biofilm, and we look into their potential toxicological effects for the development of future medicines.

Induction of tomato plant biochemical immune responses by the synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles against wilt-induced Fusarium oxysporum.

The current study used zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) to protect the tomato plant against Fusarium wilt. Gamma rays were used to synthesize ZnO-NPs, and the designed ZnO-NPs were characterized using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis.) spectroscopy. We found that the 20 kGy dose is the most effective for ZnO-NPs synthesis, with the highest O.D. = 1.65 (diluted 3 times) at 400 nm. The scale of ZnO-NPs ranged from 10.45 to 75.25 nm with an average diameter of 40.20 nm. The results showed that the designed ZnO-NPs showed promising activity as a potent inducer of plant physiological immunity against Fusarium wilt disease. Likewise, ZnO-NPs significantly reduced the wilt disease symptoms incidence by 28.57% and high protection by 67.99% against F. oxysporum. Additionally, infected tomato plants treated with ZnO-NPs show improved shoot length (44.71%), root length (40.0%), number of leaves (60.0 %), chlorophyll a (36.93%), chlorophyll b (16.46%), and carotenoids (21.87%) versus infected plants. Notably, in the treatment of tomato seedlings, the beneficial effects of ZnO-NPs extended to increase not only in osmolyte contents but also total phenol contents in comparison with control plants. In conclusion, the designed ZnO-NPs can control Fusarium wilt disease and improve and develop biochemical compounds responsible for defense against fusarial infection.

Deciphering the Impact of ZnO Nanoparticles and a Sunscreen Product Containing ZnO on Phosphorus Dynamics and Release in Chlorella pyrenoidosa in Aquatic Systems.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) expedite the conversion of organic phosphorus (OP) into PO4-P (Pi), facilitating phosphorus (P) absorption by algae. Our study explored the mechanisms of converting OP (2-aminoethylphosphonic acid (AEP) and ß-glycerol phosphate (ß-GP)) into Pi in Chlorella pyrenoidosa under P deficiency with sunscreen and ZnO NPs. Cell density followed the order of K2HPO4 > ß-GP+ZnO > ß-GP > AEP+ZnO > AEP > P-free. ZnO NPs promoted the conversion of ß-GP, containing C-O-P bonds (0.028-0.041 mg/L), into Pi more efficiently than AEP, which possesses C-P bonds (0.022-0.037 mg/L). Transcriptomics revealed Pi transport/metabolism (phoB (3.99-12.01 fold), phoR (2.20-5.50 fold), ppa (4.49-10.40 fold), and ppk (2.50-5.40 fold)) and phospholipid metabolism (SQD1 (1.85-2.79 fold), SQD2 (2.60-6.53 fold), MGD (2.13-3.21 fold), and DGD (4.08-7.56 fold)) were up-regulated compared to K2HPO4. 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy identified intracellular P as polyphosphate, orthophosphate, and pyrophosphate. Synchrotron radiation-based X-ray near-edge structure spectroscopy indicated that K2HPO4 and Zn3(PO4)2 in ß-GP+ZnO were increased by 8.09% and 7.28% compared to AEP+ZnO, suggesting superior P storage in ß-GP+ZnO. Overall, ZnO NPs improved photoinduced electron-hole pair separation and charge separation efficiency and amplified the ·OH and ·O2- levels, promoting OP photoconversion into Pi and algae growth.

Kinetics analysis of PAHs degradation using SiO2-ZnO nanoparticles and evaluating their antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy.

The adsorption of Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using nanoparticles is gaining significant attention due to the rapid removal or treatment rates. In this study, Silicon Dioxide-Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (SiO2-ZnO NPs) were synthesized to adsorb pyrene. Physicochemical characterization of SiO2-ZnO NPs showed plasmon resonance at 323 nm, agglomeration, irregular dispersion, and diameters of 90-100 nm. FT-IR analysis identified major functional groups on SiO2-ZnO NPs, including alkyne, amine, and isothiocyanate. SiO2-ZnO NPs demonstrated significant pyrene adsorption at pH 5, with 10 µg/mL of SiO2-ZnO NPs and 2 µg/mL of PAHs, performing better under UV irradiation. Two isotherm models, adsorption isotherm and kinetics adsorption, were used to analyze the PAHs adsorption by SiO2-ZnO NPs. Additionally, SiO2-ZnO NPs were tested for antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. At a concentration of 150 µg/mL, SiO2-ZnO NPs produced inhibition zones of 21.57 mm, 20.30 mm, 19.30 mm, and 11.30 mm against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, respectively. They also inhibited and disrupted biofilms of Micrococcus luteus and Acinetobacter baumannii. Furthermore, SiO2-ZnO NPs exhibited photocatalytic degradation of lead, achieving 68.24% degradation within 5 h of treatment. Therefore, SiO2-ZnO NPs are efficient candidates for multiple applications, including pyrene adsorption, bacterial biofilm disruption, and lead degradation under sunlight.

Zno nanoparticles: improving photosynthesis, shoot development, and phyllosphere microbiome composition in tea plants.

BACKGROUND: Nanotechnology holds revolutionary potential in the field of agriculture, with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) demonstrating advantages in promoting crop growth. Enhanced photosynthetic efficiency is closely linked to improved vigor and superior quality in tea plants, complemented by the beneficial role of phyllosphere microorganisms in maintaining plant health. However, the effects of ZnO NPs on the photosynthesis of tea plants, the sprouting of new shoots, and the community of phyllosphere microorganisms have not been fully investigated. RESULTS: This study investigated the photosynthetic physiological parameters of tea plants under the influence of ZnO NPs, the content of key photosynthetic enzymes such as RubisCO, chlorophyll content, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, transcriptomic and extensive targeted metabolomic profiles of leaves and new shoots, mineral element composition in these tissues, and the epiphytic and endophytic microbial communities within the phyllosphere. The results indicated that ZnO NPs could enhance the photosynthesis of tea plants, upregulate the expression of some genes related to photosynthesis, increase the accumulation of photosynthetic products, promote the development of new shoots, and alter the content of various mineral elements in the leaves and new shoots of tea plants. Furthermore, the application of ZnO NPs was observed to favorably influence the microbial community structure within the phyllosphere of tea plants. This shift in microbial community dynamics suggests a potential for ZnO NPs to contribute to plant health and productivity by modulating the phyllosphere microbiome. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that ZnO NPs have a positive impact on the photosynthesis of tea plants, the sprouting of new shoots, and the community of phyllosphere microorganisms, which can improve the growth condition of tea plants. These findings provide new scientific evidence for the application of ZnO NPs in sustainable agricultural development and contribute to advancing research in nanobiotechnology aimed at enhancing crop yield and quality.

Psidium guajav-mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles as a multifunctional, microbicidal, antioxidant and antiproliferative agent against destructive pathogens.

Bio-inspired zinc oxide nanoparticles are gaining immense interest due to their safety, low cost, biocompatibility, and broad biological properties. In recent years, much research has been focused on plant-based nanoparticles, mainly for their eco-friendly, facile, and non-toxic character. Hence, the current study emphasized a bottom-up synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) from Psidium guajava aqueous leaf extract and evaluation of its biological properties. The structural characteristic features of biosynthesized ZnO NPs were confirmed using various analytical methods, such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The synthesized ZnO NPs exhibited a hydrodynamic shape with an average particle size of 11.6-80.2 nm. A significant antimicrobial efficiency with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 40 and 27 µg/ml for Enterococcus faecalis, followed by 30 and 40 µg/ml for Staphylococcus aureus, 20 and 30 µg/ml for Staphylococcus mutans, 30 µg/ml for Candida albicans was observed by ZnO NPs. Additionally, they showed significant breakdown of biofilms of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans indicating their future value in drug-resistance research. Furthermore, an excellent dose-dependent activity of antioxidant property was noticed with an IC50 of 9.89 µg/ml. The antiproliferative potential of the ZnO NPs was indicated by the viability of MDA MB 231 cells, which showed a drastic decrease in response to increased concentrations of biosynthesized ZnO NPs. Thus, the present results open up vistas to explore their pharmaceutical potential for the development of targeted anticancer drugs in the future.

Exogenously applied nano-zinc oxide mitigates cadmium stress in Zea mays L. through modulation of physiochemical activities and nutrients homeostasis.

The increasing levels of cadmium (Cd) pollution in agricultural soil reduces plant growth and yield. This study aims to determine the impact of green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on the physiochemical activities, nutrition, growth, and yield of Zea mays L. under Cd stress conditions. For this purpose, ZnO-NPs (450 ppm and 600 ppm) synthesized from Syzygium aromaticum were applied through foliar spray to Z. mays and also used as seed priming agents. A significant decline in plant height (35.24%), biomass production (43.86%), mineral content, gas exchange attributes, and yield (37.62%) was observed in Cd-spiked plants compared to the control. While, 450 ppm ZnO-NPs primed seed increased plant height (18.46%), total chlorophyll (80.07%), improved ascorbic acid (25.10%), DPPH activity (26.66%), and soil mineral uptake (Mg+2 (38.86%), K+ (27.83%), and Zn+2 (43.68%) as compared to plants only spiked with Cd. On the contrary, the foliar-applied 450 ppm ZnO-NPs increased plant height (8.22%), total chlorophyll content (73.59%), ascorbic acid (21.39%), and DPPH activity (17.61%) and yield parameters; cob diameter (19.45%), and kernels numbers 6.35% enhanced compared to plants that were spiked only with Cd. The findings of the current study pave the way for safer and more cost-effective crop production in Cd-stressed soils by using green synthesized NPs and provide deep insights into the underlying mechanisms of NPs treatment at the molecular level to provide compelling evidence for the use of NPs in improving plant growth and yield.

Novelty statement: Phyto zinc nanoparticles improve stress tolerance and growth of Zea mays under cadmium stress.

Growth and metabolism of pea (Pisum sativum) via biostimulants based on greener ZnO nanoparticles.

The purpose of this study was to identify the most important physiological and biological effects of green synthesis ZnO nanoparticles at a size of 65 nm, biostimulant (Folcare) and interaction biostimulant ZnO NPs on plant growth and metabolism. As our understanding of biostimulants' preventive and restorative modes of action has increased, it is critical to maintain the best crop output and quality possible. The reduction of fertilizers must be substituted by strategies that improve the nutrients uptake or their utilization by the plants. New processing methods are required as an efficient green process or an integrated (hybrid) process for different new technologies of interest. The effects of NPs, biostimulant, and combination ZnO NPs biostimulant on plant cell metabolism were examined in cytosol, chloroplast, and mitochondria of cells from the stems, roots, and leaves. The interaction NPs/biostimulant had a beneficial effect on the morphological and physiological indicators of plant health than when nanoparticles and biostimulant are applied separately. Folcare biostimulant coupled with zinc oxide nanoparticles improved pea crops growth. The improved of the quality of pea plants can be explained at least, in part, by increase in antioxidant activities during plant growth phenophase.

1. Highlighting the environmental effect the risk management of biostimulants based on ZnO bionanoparticles on the growth of pea- Identification of specific responses of plants to nano stresses: Analyzes of metabolitesAntioxidants enzymes2. Folcare coupled with zinc oxide bionanoparticles has a significant favorable influence on environmental conservation management by assisting plants in more effectively using nutrients.

Combined application of zinc oxide and iron nanoparticles enhanced Red Sails lettuce growth and antioxidants enzymes activities while reducing the chromium uptake by plants grown in a Cr-contaminated soil.

Soil contamination with chromium (Cr) is becoming a primary ecological and health concern, specifically in the Kasur and Sialkot regions of Pakistan. The main objective of the current study was to evaluate the impact of foliar application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) (0, 25, 50, 100 mg L-1) and Fe NPs (0, 5, 10, 20 mg L-1) in red sails lettuce plants grown in Cr-contaminated soil. Our results showed that both ZnO and Fe NPs improved plant growth, and photosynthetic attributes by minimizing oxidative stress in lettuce plants through the stimulation of antioxidant enzyme activities. At ZnO NPs (100 mgL-1), dry weights of shoots and roots and fresh weights of shoots and roots were improved by 53%, 58%, 34%, and 45%, respectively, as compared to the respective control plants. The Fe NPs treatment (20 mgL-1) increased the dry weight of shoots and the roots and fresh weights of shoots and roots by 53%, 76%, 42%, and 70%, respectively. Application of both NPs reduced the oxidative stress caused by Cr, as evident by the findings of the current study, i.e., at the ZnO NPs (100 mgL-1) and Fe NPs (20 mgL-1), the EL declined by 32% and 44%, respectively, in comparison with respective control plants. Moreover, Fe and ZnO NPs enhanced the Fe and Zn contents in red sails lettuce plants. Application of ZnO NPs at 100 mg L-1 and Fe NPs at 20 mg L-1, improved the Zn and Fe contents in plant leaves by 86%, and 68%, respectively, as compared to the control plants. This showed that the exogenous application of these NPs helped in Zn and Fe fortification in plants. At similar of concenteration ZnO NPs, CAT and APX activities were improved by 52% and 53%, respectively. Similarly, the POD contents were improved by 17% and 45% at 5 and 10 mg/L of Fe NPs. Furthermore, ZnO and Fe NPs limited the Cr uptake by plants, and the concentration of Cr in the leaves of lettuce was under the threshold limit. The exogenous application of ZnO NPs (100 mg L-1) and Fe NPs (20 mg L-1) reduced the Cr uptake in the leaves of red sails lettuce by 57% and 51%, respectively. In conclusion, ZnO and Fe NPs could be used for the improvement of plant growth and biomass as well as nutrient fortification in stressed environments. These findings not only underscore the efficacy of nanoparticle-assisted phytoremediation but also highlight its broader implications for sustainable agriculture and environmental health. However, future studies on other crops with molecular-level investigations are recommended for the validation of the results.

ZnO and Fe NPs improved the growth and photosynthesis of red sails lettuce plantsBoth NPs enhanced antioxidants enzymes activities in stressed plantsNPs mediated response reduced the oxidative stress and Cr uptake in red sails lettuceZnO and Fe NPs resulted in Zn and Fe fortification, respectively, in red sails lettuce.

Chitosan-Supported ZnO Nanoparticles: Their Green Synthesis, Characterization, and Application for the Removal of Pyridoxine HCl (Vitamin B6) from Aqueous Media.

A composite of chitosan-supported ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO/CS) was green-synthesized via an easy and cost-effective method using Chicory (Cichorium intybus) plant extract. The synthesis was confirmed using uv-vis spectrometry at a λmax of 380 nm, and the surface of the material was characterized via FT-IR spectroscopy, and finally via SEM, which confirmed the distribution of ZnO nanoparticles on the surface of chitosan biopolymer (CS). The synthesized material was applied in the adsorptive removal of residues of the pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6) pharmaceutical drug from aqueous media using the batch technique. The material's removal capacity was studied through several adjustable parameters including pH, contact time, the dose of the adsorbent, and the capacity for drug adsorption under the optimal conditions. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were applied to describe the adsorption process. The removal was found to obey the Freundlich model, which refers to a chemisorption process. Different kinetic models were also studied for the removal process and showed that the pseudo-second-order model was more fitted, which indicates that the removal was a chemisorption process. Thermodynamic studies were also carried out. The maximum removal of vitamin B6 by the nano-ZnO/CS composite was found to be 75% at optimal conditions. The results were compared to other reported adsorbents. Reusability tests showed that the nano-ZnO/CS composite can be efficiently reused up to seven times for the removal of PDX drugs from aqueous media.

A Study on the Antibacterial, Antispasmodic, Antipyretic, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Leaf Extract from Jasminum sambac (L. Aiton).

The green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using plants has grown in significance in recent years. ZnO NPs were synthesized in this work via a chemical precipitation method with Jasminum sambac (JS) leaf extract serving as a capping agent. These NPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, XRD, SEM, TEM, TGA, and DTA. The results from UV-vis and FT-IR confirmed the band gap energies (3.37 eV and 3.50 eV) and the presence of the following functional groups: CN, OH, C=O, and NH. A spherical structure and an average grain size of 26 nm were confirmed via XRD. The size and surface morphology of the ZnO NPs were confirmed through the use of SEM analysis. According to the TEM images, the ZnO NPs had an average mean size of 26 nm and were spherical in shape. The TGA curve indicated that the weight loss starts at 100 °C, rising to 900 °C, as a result of the evaporation of water molecules. An exothermic peak was seen during the DTA analysis at 480 °C. Effective antibacterial activity was found at 7.32 ± 0.44 mm in Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus) and at 15.54 ± 0.031 mm in Gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria against the ZnO NPs. Antispasmodic activity: the 0.3 mL/mL sample solution demonstrated significant reductions in stimulant effects induced by histamine (at a concentration of 1 µg/mL) by (78.19%), acetylcholine (at a concentration of 1 µM) by (67.57%), and nicotine (at a concentration of 2 µg/mL) by (84.35%). The antipyretic activity was identified using the specific Shodhan vidhi method, and their anti-inflammatory properties were effectively evaluated with a denaturation test. A 0.3 mL/mL sample solution demonstrated significant reductions in stimulant effects induced by histamine (at a concentration of 1 µg/mL) by 78.19%, acetylcholine (at a concentration of 1 µM) by 67.57%, and nicotine (at a concentration of 2 µg/mL) by 84.35%. These results underscore the sample solution's potential as an effective therapeutic agent, showcasing its notable antispasmodic activity. Among the administered doses, the 150 mg/kg sample dose exhibited the most potent antipyretic effects. The anti-inflammatory activity of the synthesized NPs showed a remarkable inhibition percentage of (97.14 ± 0.005) at higher concentrations (250 µg/mL). Furthermore, a cytotoxic effect was noted when the biologically synthesized ZnO NPs were introduced to treated cells.

Antibacterial and phytotoxicological properties assessment of Momordica charantia extract-based ZnO nanoparticles.

BACKGROUND: Utilizing the fruit extract of bitter melon (Momordica charantia), zinc nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) were synthesized through a green approach, a novel endeavor in current literature. The primary objective was to evaluate the phytotoxic and growth-promoting effects of these ZnO-NPs on wheat, chosen as a test plant. Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed the hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure of ZnO-NPs and identified spherical M. charantia-produced (MC)-ZnO-NPs ranging in size from 48 to 150 nm. RESULTS: At a concentration of 2000 mg L-1 , both MC- and raw-ZnO-NPs augmented wheat germination percentages. Furthermore, raw-ZnO-NPs at 4000 mg L-1 demonstrated the highest chlorophyll content. Despite the plant's increased accumulation of MC-ZnO-NPs, no statistically significant toxic effects were observed. The antibacterial efficacy of ZnO-NPs was assessed against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. MC-ZnO-NPs exhibited a 67.9% inhibition zone against Escherichia coli at 0.04 mg L-1 , while raw-ZnO-NPs exhibited 75.6% inhibition at the same concentration. CONCLUSION: The study suggests that ZnO-NPs synthesized from M. charantia exhibit both growth-promoting effects on wheat without significant phytotoxicity and potent antibacterial properties, particularly against Escherichia coli. However, further investigations are warranted to comprehensively understand the interactions between ZnO-NPs and plants. Future research should focus on M. charantia, exploring its enhanced effects on plant growth, development and antibacterial attributes. These findings hold promise for potential agricultural applications, emphasizing the need for detailed phytotoxicological assessments of ZnO-NPs. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Ca-doped ZnO nanoparticles for MB dye degradation and adsorptive removal of tinidazole.

Industrial dye degradation involves several processes by which dyes are broken down, ideally into innocuous products. Methylene blue (MB) is one of the most commonly employed dyes in the textile industry and is released into water in routine industry processes. These discharges lead to creating a nocuous nature for humans and animals. Drugs are also discharged into water bodies from various pharmaceutical industries. In these two contexts, in the present work, the green synthesis of calcium-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Ca-doped ZnO NPs) is achieved using the aqueous peel extract of Citrus limetta by the solution combustion technique. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the synthesized Ca-doped ZnO NPs are investigated using XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDX, and UV-visible spectroscopy. The prepared NPs were subjected to photocatalytic degradation of MB dye under visible-light illumination, which shows ~ 95% dye degradation. The synthesized Ca-doped ZnO NPs were also employed to adsorb tinidazole (TDZ), a nitroimidazole antibiotic, from water samples. An excellent adsorptive capacity of the NPs was observed for selectively adsorbing the TDZ ~ 96.2%. The drug TDZ was found to have pseudo-second-order kinetics. The catalyst recycling proved its repeatability; removal of the dye reached up to 92% after three successive usages. Therefore, using waste Citrus limetta peel extract, the multifunctional Ca-doped ZnO NPs were synthesized, which maintained effective adsorption potential and photocatalytic abilities and could be used as an effective material for environmental remediation.

Adsorption of Ibuprofen as a pharmaceutical pollutant from aqueous phase using zinc oxide nanoparticles: Green synthesis, batch adsorption, and biological activities.

Recent interest has focused on the biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles (NPs), particularly from plants. The production of precipitate served as an early indicator of the presence in the present study's use of ZnO NPs green synthesis of these particles, which was further validated by; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction. Additionally, the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller was used to calculate the surface area, which came out to be 119.12 m2 /g. Since the true effects of new pollutants, including medicines, on the environment and human health are not well understood, their presence in aquatic systems poses a severe hazard. For this reason, the antibiotic Ibuprofen (IBP) was absorbable to ZnO-NPs in this search. As opposed to fitting to Langmuir isothermally, the adsorption process was discovered to be pseudo-second-order kinetically, and the reaction was determined to be a chemisorption process. The process was endothermic and spontaneous, according to thermodynamic studies. Maximizing IBP removal from aqueous solution required the use of a Box-Behnken surface statistical design with four components, four levels, and response surface modeling. Solution pH, IBP concentration, duration, and dose were the four parameters that were utilized. The regeneration process, which is employed for five cycles with excellent efficiency, is the best benefit of using ZnO-NPs. Examine the elimination of pollutants from actual samples as well. However, the adsorbent is quite effective at reducing biological activity. At high concentrations of ZnO-NPs demonstrated notable antioxidant activity and Red Blood Cell (RBC) hemocompatibility and no discernible hemolysis was seen. ZnO-NPs demonstrated a notable percent suppression of α-amylase up to 53.6% at 400 µg/mL, and so displayed potential as an antidiabetic. Cyclooxygenase was suppressed by ZnO-NPs in an anti-inflammatory test (COX-1 & COX-2) up to 56.32% and 52.04% at a concentration of 400 µg/mL, respectively. Significant anti-Alzheimer potential was demonstrated by ZnO-NPs at 400 µg/mL by inhibiting Acetyl cholinesterase and Butyl cholinesterase up to 68.98 ± 1.62% and 62.36%, respectively. We concluded that guava extract is helpful for ZnO-NP reduction and capping. The bioengineered NPs could prevent Alzheimer's, diabetes, and inflammation and were biocompatible.

Concurrent application of bacterial-mediated and mycosynthesized ZnO nanofungicides to maintain high ascorbic acid and delay postharvest decay of apricot.

Quality of apricot fruit is affected by different biotic stresses during growth, harvesting and storage. Due to fungal attack, huge losses of its quality and quantity are observed. The present research was designed for the diagnoses and management of postharvest rot disease of apricot. Infected apricot fruit were collected, and the causative agent was identified as A. tubingensis. To control this disease, both bacterial-mediated nanoparticles (b-ZnO NPs) and mycosynthesized nanoparticles (f-ZnO NPs) were used. Herein, biomass filtrates of one selected fungus (Trichoderma harzianum) and one bacterium (Bacillus safensis) were used to reduce zinc acetate into ZnO NPs. The physiochemical and morphological characters of both types of NPs were determined. UV-vis spectroscopy displayed absorption peaks of f-ZnO NPs and b-ZnO NPs at 310-380 nm, respectively, indicating successful reduction of Zinc acetate by the metabolites of both fungus and bacteria. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) determined the presence of organic compounds like amines, aromatics, alkenes and alkyl halides, on both types of NPs, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed nano-size of f-ZnO NPs (30 nm) and b-ZnO NPs (35 nm). Scanning electron microscopy showed flower-crystalline shape for b-ZnO NPs and spherical-crystalline shape for f-ZnO NPs. Both NPs showed variable antifungal activities at four different concentrations (0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00 mg/ml). Diseases control and postharvest changes in apricot fruit were analyzed for 15 days. Among all treatments, 0.50 mg/ml concentration of f-ZnO NPs and 0.75 mg/ml concentration of b-ZnO NPs exhibited the strongest antifungal activity. Comparatively, f-ZnO NPs performed slightly better than b-ZnO NPs. Application of both NPs reduced fruit decay and weight, maintained higher ascorbic acid contents, sustained titratable acidity, and preserved firmness of diseased fruit. Our results suggest that microbial synthesized ZnO NPs can efficiently control fruit rot, extend shelf life, and preserve the quality of apricot.

Sunlight-assisted photocatalytic degradation of orange G dye using cost-effective zinc oxide nanoparticles.

We have used an environmentally friendly approach to produce zinc oxide nanoparticles from an aqueous extract of Cucumis maderaspatanus L. leaves (Cm-ZnO NPs). Leaf extract phytoconstituents work as both reducing and stabilising agents. Calcination at 300, 500, 700, and 800 °C allowed fine-tuning of the bandgap of synthesised Cm-ZnO NPs, which has been well-characterized. The XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the Cm-ZnO NPs. The Cm-ZnO NPs were found to be spherical and averaged 8.6 nm in size, as determined by transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. TGA testing validated the nanoparticles' resilience to heat. The zeta potential measurements showed that the Cm-ZnO NPs were stable. By analysing the sorption of nitrogen onto the nanoparticles, we were able to calculate their surface area, which came in at 19 m2/g. The degradation of orange G (OG) dye in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) served as an oxidizing agent and measured the photocatalytic efficiency of the Cm-ZnO NPs. In addition, the effect of varying dye, H2O2, and catalyst concentrations on photodegradation was studied. The rate of reactions was computed. In conclusion, the obtained data demonstrated that the produced Cm-ZnO NPs can be employed as a cost-efficient catalyst for textile industrial effluent treatment.