Green synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles using Prosopis cineraria leaf extract: Biomedical and environmental studies for multifaceted applications

In this study, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) were synthesized through a green and sustainable route, utilizing Prosopis cineraria leaf extract as both the reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized CeO2 NPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, TGA, DSC, DLS, and Zeta potential studies to confirm the formation, functional groups on the surface, crystallinity, morphology, elemental composition, thermal stability, size, and stability in colloidal solutions. The biological potential of the synthesized CeO2 NPs was explored across several domains. Their antibacterial efficacy was demonstrated via clear zones of inhibition against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Antioxidant capability, evaluated using the DPPH radical-scavenging assay, showed a dose-dependent enhancement of radical neutralization. Additionally, the anti-angiogenic activity was confirmed by the CAM assay, which revealed a marked, concentration-dependent reduction in new blood vessel formation. Lastly, seed vigor index measurements indicated that CeO2 NPs positively influenced seedling growth by enhancing both root and shoot length in monocot and dicot plants.