Biogenic silver nanoparticle synthesis using orange peel extract and its multifaceted biomedical application

Area of Science:

• Green Chemistry and Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology and Agricultural Science

Background:

• Agro-industrial byproducts, like Citrus sinensis peels, are rich in polyphenols.
• Polyphenols can act as reducing agents for synthesizing nanoparticles.
• Sustainable utilization of agricultural waste is crucial for resource management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Citrus sinensis peels.
• To characterize the synthesized AgNPs.
• To investigate the biological activities of AgNPs, including antimicrobial and anticancer effects.

Main Methods:

• Green synthesis of AgNPs using aqueous extract of C. sinensis peels.
• Characterization of AgNPs using UV-vis spectroscopy, DLS, SEM, EDX, and TEM.
• Evaluation of antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans.
• Assessment of anti-biofilm formation efficacy.
• Investigation of cytotoxic effects on DU145 prostate cancer cell line using apoptosis, ROS, and AO/EtBr assays.

Main Results:

• AgNPs were successfully synthesized and characterized.
• Effective inhibition of bacterial growth (MIC: 32 μg/mL for E. coli and S. aureus) and fungal growth (MIC: 128 μg/mL for C. albicans).
• Significant biofilm inhibition (94% for E. coli, 92% for S. aureus) at 250 μg/mL AgNPs.
• Demonstrated cytotoxic effects on DU145 cancer cells.
• Preliminary uptake analysis provided insights into the mechanisms of toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Citrus sinensis peel extract is an effective and sustainable source for green synthesis of AgNPs.
• Synthesized AgNPs possess significant antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties.
• This method offers a valuable strategy for agricultural waste valorization and the production of medicinal nanoparticles.