Narrow Results

The development of nanomaterials using green synthesis methods is gaining attention due to their potential to reduce environmental pollution and health risks associated with traditional chemical synthesis methods. Among the various transition metals, zirconia has gained significant interest as filling materials and implants in dentistry due to its excellent mechanical and chemical properties. In this study, we developed ecofriendly zirconium oxide nanoparticles using Biancaea sappan extract as a capping agent and then functionalized them with Quercetin. Further, their anti-inflammatory property and hemocompatibility were evaluated to target their application as filling materials. The biogenic zirconium oxide nanoparticles (B-ZrO₂NPs) and quercetin functionalized biogenic zirconium oxide nanoparticles (BQZN) were characterized by UV–Vis Spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy X-ray analysis (EDX). B-ZrO₂NPs showed maximum absorbance at 267nm and 383nm. FTIR showed characteristic stretching at 3381cm${-1}^{}$, confirming the O–H group in the extract and Quercetin used for BQZN formation. The FTIR spectra of BQZN displayed the presence of the characteristic peaks observed in the spectra of B-ZrO₂NPs and Quercetin. The broad XRD pattern confirmed the amorphous nature of the zirconia. SEM revealed the spherical morphology of B-ZrO₂NPs and BQZN with a size range of around 90nm and 120nm, respectively. EDAX of BQZN revealed the presence of 45.7wt.% Zr, 32.9% oxygen and 21.4% of carbon. In vitro bioactivity studies revealed that BQZN exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity, as evidenced by the inhibition of protein denaturation. The nanoparticles were also demonstrated for their hemocompatibility with erythrocytes. These findings highlight the potential of BQZN as a promising hemocompatible dental filling with significant anti-inflammatory properties. Further in-depth in vivo studies are required to fully understand their efficacy and toxicity.

Selenium nanoparticles have drawn interest recently, due to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics and potential usage in numerous applications, including medicine, electronics and catalysis. In this study, we employed Biancaea sappan (BS), often known as sappan wood or Brazilwood, which is a flowering tree that is endemic to Southeast Asia. Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, this tree’s heartwood is frequently used in traditional medicine. Additionally, the wood is used to make natural dyes. In this study, we aim to develop an ecofriendly selenium nanoparticle using BS$,$ as a natural reducing agent and curcumin as a capping agent. The nanoparticles were synthesized using the green synthesis method and characterized using various techniques. Biocompatibility was evaluated using hemolytic assay and the bioactivity of the nanoparticles was assessed using anti-inflammatory and antioxidant assays. Selenium nanoparticles (BCSeN) were successfully synthesized using BS bark extract and functionalized with curcumin. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis Spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, confirming their morphology, crystallinity, functionalization, elemental composition, size and stability. In vitro, bioactivity studies revealed that the BCSeN exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity. They also demonstrated notable antioxidant efficacy against DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and were also found to have minimal hemolytic potential. Our findings highlight the potential of BCSeN as a promising candidate for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant applications. However, further in-depth analysis is required to fully understand their efficacy and toxicity.