Ecofriendly silver nanoparticle synthesis, physicochemical characterization from Datura stramonium, and its biological applications in Parkinson Drosophila model

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder driven by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Central to its pathology is the disruption of PINK1 (PTEN-induced kinase 1)-mediated mitophagy, which plays a critical role in maintaining mitochondrial quality control. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of green-synthesized silver oxide/silver nanoparticles derived from Datura stramonium Linn, (DS-AgO/Ag-NPs) in modulating PINK1 expression and alleviating PD-associated symptoms using a Drosophila melanogaster model. DS-AgO/Ag-NPs were synthesized using an eco-friendly approach and characterized through UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, TEM, FTIR, and DLS. The nanoparticles exhibited dose-dependent effects, improving longevity, locomotor function, and mitochondrial stress responses in the PD model flies at optimized concentrations. Notably, PINK1 expression was significantly altered in response to DS-AgO/Ag-NP treatment, indicating a modulatory effect on mitochondrial quality control pathways. These findings suggest that DS-AgO/Ag-NPs offer a promising avenue for targeted intervention in neurodegenerative disorders, provided that dosing is carefully optimized to avoid potential cytotoxic effects in healthy systems. Significance of the study This work explores the therapeutic potential of green-synthesized silver oxide/silver nanoparticles (DS-AgO/Ag-NPs) from Datura stramonium in modulating PINK1 expression and alleviating Parkinson’s disease pathology, using a Drosophila melanogaster model. Their eco-friendly synthesis and dose-dependent effects highlight their promise as sustainable nanotherapeutics, with careful dosage optimization crucial to minimize cytotoxicity in healthy systems.