Biosynthesis, characterization and biological activity of silver nanoparticles from mercurialis annua L

This research explores the environmentally friendly production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using extracts from the Mercurialis annua L. plant evaluating their structural characteristics and biological activities. Traditional nanoparticle synthesis methods often involve hazardous chemicals and high energy input, which pose environmental and health concerns. In contrast, the use of plant-based materials offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. In this research, aqueous extracts of Mercurialis annua L., a medicinal plant rich in phenolic compounds, were used as reducing and stabilizing agents in the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vi's spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD and TEM- EDX techniques to determine their optical properties, crystalline structure, morphology, and elemental composition. The biological potential of the AgNPs was assessed through antioxidant assays (DPPH, FRAP, CUPRAC), total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) content measurements, and enzyme inhibition tests targeting α-glucosidase and carbonic anhydrase. LC-MS/MS analysis was conducted to identify key phenolic constituents in the extract and nanoparticle solution. The findings demonstrate that Mercurialis annua extract is effective in producing stable AgNPs with significant antioxidant capacity and enzyme inhibitory effects, suggesting potential applications in biomedicine and environmental science. This research contributes to the growing field of green nanotechnology and highlights the importance of plant-derived materials in the development of functional nanomaterials.