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Introduction
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) exhibit unique physicochemical properties, including optical, electrical, and antibacterial characteristics, leading to widespread applications in diverse fields such as medicine, industry, and consumer products.1 Conventional AgNP synthesis methods often involve hazardous chemicals and complex procedures.2 Green synthesis, utilizing plant extracts, offers an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative.3
This study investigates the green synthesis of AgNPs using extracts from four plant species: Cabomba furcata, Limnophila aromatica, Mimosa diplotricha, and Panicum maximum. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized, and their antibacterial activity and effects on seed germination were evaluated. Furthermore, molecular docking studies were performed on E. coli Nitrate Reductase A (NRA) to predict the potential binding interactions between the protein and AgNPs derived from each plant extract. This research aims to explore the potential of these plant-mediated AgNPs for various applications while emphasizing an environmentally responsible approach.
Materials and Methods
Plant Materials and Reagents
Fresh aerial parts of C. furcata, L. aromatica, M. diplotricha, and P. maximum were collected from Changanassery, Kottayam district, Kerala state, India in April 2024. Plant identification was confirmed by the Department of Botany, St. Berchmans College. Healthy leaves were collected, washed with distilled water, dried, and ground into a fine powder using a domestic blender. The powder was stored in airtight containers for subsequent use. Analytical-grade silver nitrate (AgNO3) was used for nanoparticle synthesis. Collected leaves were washed thoroughly with distilled water and air-dried at room temperature for 2-3 days. The dried leaves were then cut into small pieces and ground into a fine powder. Plant extracts were prepared by boiling 1 g of plant powder in 100 mL of distilled water for 5 minutes. The boiled extracts were filtered through Whatman No. 1 filter paper, and the supernatants were collected and stored at 4°C for further use.4 1 mM AgNO3 solution was prepared by dissolving 0.015 g of AgNO3 in 90 mL of double-distilled water. The solution was stored in dark conditions to prevent photo-oxidation of silver ions.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles
For AgNP synthesis, 10 mL of each plant extract was added to 90 mL of 1 mM AgNO3 solution in 250 mL conical flasks. The reaction mixtures were kept at room temperature under constant...