Synthesis of Iron Nanoparticles Fe NPs using medicinal plants and evaluation of antibacterial antioxidants and cytotoxicity activities

Abstract

The field of nanoscience is actively exploring various nanomaterials for biomedical applications, particularly green-synthesized nanoparticles of silver, iron, and zinc. These nanomaterials have shown potential in controlling bacterial pathogens, inhibiting cancer growth, and exhibiting antioxidant properties. In this study, iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) were successfully synthesized using Achyranthes aspera (Apamarg), Vitex negundo (Nirgundi), and Millettia pinnata (Karanj). Characterization was performed using FTIR, SEM, EDAX, and XRD analysis. The antibacterial activity of seven FeNPs and an equal number of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was evaluated against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae using well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. Pathogen identification was confirmed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The FeNPs and AgNPs were further assessed for in vitro anticancer activity using the MTT assay and antioxidant potential using the DPPH assay. The FeNPs and AgNPs synthesized from Apamarg, Nirgundi, and Karanj exhibited varying antibacterial activities. Among them, FeNPs derived from Apamarg leaves effectively inhibited E. coli, K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa. Structural analysis of these FeNPs indicated that their shape and size were optimal, making them suitable for future synthesis and application. Apamarg FeNPs also demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against breast cancer cell lines, showing a lower IC50 value and superior activity compared to AgNPs from the same plant. However, both Apamarg FeNPs and AgNPs exhibited no significant antioxidant activity. This study highlights Apamarg FeNPs as a promising candidate for antibacterial and anticancer applications compared to other FeNPs tested. newline