Multifunctional Silver Nanoparticles from Plant Extracts: Green Synthesis and Applications in Antibacterial Activity and Plant Growth

Sanisha Attichira Santhosh, Varsha Benny, Anjana Kannattu Pushpamgadhan, Febamol Shaji and Salvy Thomas^*

Department of Botany, St. Berchmans College Changanassery, Kerala, India.

Corresponding Author E-mail: salvythomas@sbcollege.ac.in

ABSTRACT: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess unique physicochemical properties, making them valuable in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation. Their strong antibacterial activity has significant potential for combating infectious diseases. This study explores the green synthesis of AgNPs using leaf extracts from four plant species, including Cabomba furcata, Limnophila aromatica, Mimosa diplotricha, and Panicum maximum. This eco-friendly approach offers a sustainable and biocompatible alternative to traditional chemical synthesis methods, promoting responsible nanomaterial production. The synthesized AgNPs were characterised using appropriate techniques, and their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli was evaluated. Additionally, the influence of AgNPs on seed germination was investigated. Molecular docking simulations were performed to explore the potential interactions between AgNPs and Nitrate Reductase A, an essential bacterial enzyme. This in silico approach provides insights into the possible mechanisms underlying the observed antibacterial effects and lays the foundation for developing AgNP-based therapeutics with enhanced efficacy and safety. In summary, this study demonstrates the successful green synthesis of AgNPs using leaf extracts from the four selected plant species and highlights their potential as multifunctional nanomaterials with antibacterial, plant growth-modulating, and molecular docking analysis capabilities.

KEYWORDS: Cabomba furcate; Green Synthesis; Limnophila aromatica; Mimosa diplotricha; Molecular Docking; Panicum maximum

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