Silver Nanoparticles Formation by Jatropha integerrima and LC/MS-QTOF-Based Metabolite Profiling

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Conventional metal nanoparticle synthesis poses environmental concerns.
• There is a need for eco-friendly alternatives for nanoparticle production.
• Biogenic synthesis offers a sustainable approach using natural resources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a safe, green method for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (J-AgNPs) using Jatropha integerrima leaf extract.
• To characterize the physiochemical properties of the synthesized J-AgNPs.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of J-AgNPs as antimicrobial and cytotoxic agents.

Main Methods:

• Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Jatropha integerrima leaf extract.
• Physicochemical characterization using UV-Vis, DLS, TEM, EDS, HPLC-DAD, LC/MS, and FTIR.
• Evaluation of antibacterial activity against clinical isolates.
• Assessment of cytotoxic effects on cancer and normal cell lines.
• Mechanism of action studied using TEM and confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Main Results:

• Spherical J-AgNPs were successfully synthesized with an average size of 22.8 nm (TEM) and zeta potential of -34.7 mV.
• HPLC and FTIR analyses identified biomolecules (proteins, polyphenols) responsible for reduction and capping.
• J-AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity, while the ampicillin-nanocomposite conjugate showed weak effects.
• J-AgNPs demonstrated cytotoxic effects on cancer and normal cell lines, inducing apoptosis and ultrastructural changes.

Conclusions:

• Jatropha integerrima leaf extract is an effective green reducing agent for silver nanoparticle synthesis.
• Biogenic silver nanoparticles (J-AgNPs) possess potent antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties.
• J-AgNPs hold promise as a therapeutic candidate for further investigation.