Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Hypochaeris radicata L. Extract and their Bioactivity

Background: The use of plant extracts in the biosynthesis of nanoparticles has garnered attention in recent years due to the rapid, ecological, and economical production protocol. The current study aimed to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of Hypochaeris radicata L. extract Methods: These nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) to determine their size and composition. The bioactivity was assessed by the determination of their antimicrobial effect using the well diffusion method and their cytotoxicity by hemolysis method. Results: The results showed that AgNPs have been successfully synthesized and exhibit a surface plasmon resonance spectrum with an absorption maximum at 420 nm. FTIR affirmed the role of H. radicata L. as a reducing and capping agent of silver ions and XRD revealed their crystalline nature. Interestingly, the synthesized AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial effects particularly against Escherichia coli and Aspergillus niger with inhibition zones of 20.5 and 19 mm, respectively. The cytotoxicity test confirmed the non-toxic characteristics of the synthesized AgNPs Conclusion: The bio-ingredients present in the plant extract were effective for the synthesis of Ag nanoparticles with significant biological efficacy