A latest examine revealed in Bioinorganic Chemistry and Purposes reported a inexperienced synthesis technique for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing peel extract from the “Mollar de Elche” number of pomegranate.
The work demonstrates how pure plant extracts can function each lowering and stabilizing brokers in nanoparticle formation, providing a sustainable different to conventional chemical synthesis routes.
Picture Credit score: Yessi Frenda/Shutterstock.com
Background
The examine contributes to a rising curiosity in biogenic, or inexperienced, synthesis of steel nanoparticles—notably silver—because of their antibacterial, antioxidant, and antitumor properties. Pomegranate (Punica granatum), identified for its excessive content material of phenolic compounds equivalent to punicalagin, affords a wealthy supply of bioactive molecules that may drive nanoparticle synthesis whereas additionally imparting therapeutic properties.
The researchers used pomegranate peel extract particularly for its excessive focus of phenolics, which might each cut back silver ions and stabilize the ensuing nanoparticles. This strategy addresses the necessity for environmentally pleasant synthesis strategies that cut back the usage of hazardous reagents. To optimize the method, the group utilized a Field–Behnken design (BBD), a statistical technique utilized in response floor methodology (RSM) for evaluating interactions between a number of synthesis parameters.
The Present Research
Silver nanoparticles had been synthesized by mixing various concentrations of silver nitrate with pomegranate peel extract. The peel extract was obtained by way of a easy extraction technique, and three key parameters had been examined utilizing the BBD strategy: silver nitrate focus, extract focus, and response temperature.
The ensuing nanoparticles had been characterised utilizing a number of methods. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy was used to verify the formation of nanoparticles by way of floor plasmon resonance. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) recognized practical teams concerned in stabilization.
X-ray diffraction (XRD) supplied data on crystallinity, and subject emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) was used to review particle dimension and morphology. Hydrodynamic diameter, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential had been additionally measured to evaluate dispersion and colloidal stability.
To judge antibacterial efficacy, the synthesized AgNPs had been examined in opposition to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus utilizing customary antimicrobial assays. The researchers additionally embedded the nanoparticles in nanofibrous scaffolds to evaluate the potential for biomedical purposes equivalent to wound dressings.
Outcomes and Dialogue
The BBD mannequin successfully optimized the synthesis course of, yielding silver nanoparticles with managed dimension and good dispersion. The AgNPs had been predominantly spherical and exhibited uniform morphology.
UV-Vis spectra confirmed profitable formation, with a transparent floor plasmon resonance peak. FTIR evaluation revealed that practical teams from the pomegranate extract had been concerned in lowering and capping the nanoparticles, serving to to stabilize the colloid.
Antibacterial assays confirmed that the AgNPs exhibited considerably enhanced antimicrobial exercise in opposition to each Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in comparison with typical antimicrobial brokers. This exercise was retained even after incorporating the nanoparticles into nanofibrous scaffolds, highlighting their potential for biomedical purposes equivalent to wound dressings.
The examine underscored the significance of managed synthesis circumstances. The interplay between phenolic compounds within the pomegranate extract and silver ions was key in forming steady, bioactive nanoparticles. These bio-reduced nanoparticles benefited from the twin operate of the extract—appearing each as a lowering agent and a stabilizer—resulting in particles with constant antibacterial efficiency.
Conclusion
This examine demonstrates a inexperienced synthesis route for silver nanoparticles utilizing pomegranate peel extract as a pure lowering and stabilizing agent. Optimization via the Field–Behnken design led to constant nanoparticle formation and enhanced antibacterial exercise. The AgNPs confirmed robust efficiency in opposition to frequent bacterial strains and retained efficacy when included into nanofiber scaffolds.
Past their rapid biomedical potential, these outcomes contribute to sustainable nanomaterial synthesis by showcasing the worth of plant-derived compounds in lowering reliance on artificial chemical compounds. The usage of pomegranate waste not solely helps environmental targets but additionally affords an economical technique for producing practical nanomaterials.
Journal Reference
Díaz-Puertas R., et al. (2025). An modern strategy based mostly on the inexperienced synthesis of silver nanoparticles utilizing pomegranate peel extract for antibacterial functions. Bioinorganic Chemistry and Purposes. DOI: 10.1155/bca/2009069, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/bca/2009069
