Next-gen ferulic acid-stabilized gold nanoparticles: exploring their sensing capabilities and therapeutic efficacy

This study focuses on the synthesis and evaluation of innovative gold nanoparticles (AuNps) stabilized by short-chain ferulic acid (FA), specifically 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-cinnamic acid.

We analyzed the size and distribution of FA-TSC-AuNps and FA-NaBH4-AuNps, with the reduction kinetics of Au3 + to Au0. The electronic and optical properties of these AuNps were scrutinized using UV-visible, AFM, and FT-IR.

AFM distinctly showcased spherical particles, average diameters of 4 ± 1 nm for FA-TSC-AuNps and 11 ± 1 nm for FA-NaBH4-AuNps systems. In the DPPH assay, the anti-scavenging activity recorded values of: FA at 15.4% ± 0.32, FA-TSC-AuNps at an impressive 86.8% ± 0.32, and FA-NaBH4-AuNps at 61.5% ± 0.22. The ABTS assay yielded results of: FA at 13%, FA-TSC-AuNps at 70.14%, and FA-NaBH4-AuNps at a remarkable 92.8%. Catalytic investigations revealed that both facilitated the swift conversion of p-nitrophenol to p-aminophenol. Additionally successful chemo sensing capabilities were assessed, particularly in relation to ciprofloxacin antibiotic by distinct shift in color signifies the effective detection capability of both sensory systems for the drug. Moreover, with FA-TSC-AuNps exhibiting significant sensitivity toward aluminum.

These nanoparticles suggest promising avenues for drug system modifications and enhancements, highlighting their multifaceted potential in both catalytic and chemo sensing applications.