Sustainable mosquito control: A tool in the fight against Aedes aegypti using Flemingia wightiana

Mosquito-borne diseases, particularly those transmitted by Aedes aegypti, have been proven to be a global health challenge. A. aegypti, a major vector of Zika virus, Dengue virus, Chikungunya, is traditionally controlled through synthetic insecticides. However, the factor of environmental issues and rising insecticide resistant breeds have prompted the exploration of eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives. Here, we attempt to use the leaf extract of Flemingia wightiana to produce silver nanoparticles (FWAgNP). The construct of AgNPs was first indicated by UV-Vis spectroscopy, with a peak at 461 nm. NP was then characterized by SEM, EDX and functional groups were analyzed using FTIR spectroscopy. Safety assessments of synthesized NP were carried out on Oreochromis niloticus. Percentage mortality was studied on A. Aegypti with both test samples, FWAgNP and FWME. FWAgNP were found to be effective; the lowest percentage mortality of 70 % was recorded for forth instar larvae and 100 % mortality was observed in the first and second instar larvae. Oxidative stress assays such as AChe, SOD, CAT, GSH and GST were carried out. SOD, CAT and GSH showed significant elevated levels. GST and AChe levels reduced as the concentration increased, indicating the role of test samples in oxidative stress. Antiviral assay was conducted to check the effect of AgNPs in inhibiting the growth and infection of Zika virus (ZIKV) on Vero cells. The percentage inhibition property of AgNP was found to be 25 %. In conclusion, the developed FWAgNPs have significant potential in the control of vectors and a limited inhibitory activity on Zika virus.