Antidiabetic Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Biosynthesized with Stenocereus queretaroensis Flower Extract

Background/Objectives: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common metabolic disorders, with a continually increasing population incidence. One of the main therapeutic approaches for this condition involves the inhibition of alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase-key enzymes involved in carbohydrate breakdown. Silver nanoparticles have exhibited inhibitory activity against both enzymes, suggesting their potential in regulating postprandial blood glucose levels. This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized with Stenocereus queretaroensis flower extract. Methods: The flower extract was prepared and, following a qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis, was utilized in the reaction to biosynthesize S. queretaroensis flower extract nanoparticles (SAgNPs). The SAgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR). The antidiabetic potential of the biosynthesized SAgNPs was evaluated in vitro using alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory assays, while an animal model was used for postprandial hypoglycemic activity in healthy mice. Results: The phytochemical analyses showed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids like sinapic acid, p-coumaroyl tyrosine, procyanidin dimer β1, and dihydroquercetin in the flower extract. The SAgNPs were found to be rough and spherical in shape, with an average size of 99.5 nm. The inhibition of alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase by SAgNPs exhibited an IC₅₀ of 4.92 µg/mL and 0.68 µg/mL, respectively. The animal model results suggested that SAgNPs at 100 mg/kg caused a significant decrease in the postprandial glucose level; this effect is likely attributable to delayed carbohydrate digestion, as supported by the in vitro findings. Conclusions:S. queretaroensis-synthesized silver nanoparticles may constitute a promising option for antidiabetic therapy.