Green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from Cissus quadrangularis for anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory applications: A phytochemical and In silico approach

AbstractCissus quadrangularis, a succulent plant belonging to the Vitaceae family, has traditionally been employed in the management of diabetes, inflammation, and other ailments. This study investigates the environmentally friendly production of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles by employing aqueous extracts of C. quadrangularis and explores their anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory potential. Phytochemical screening and GC-MS study of extracts of petroleum ether and ethyl acetate identified key bioactive compounds including flavonoids, beta-sitosterol, and squalene. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding affinities of beta-sitosterol with diabetes-associated target proteins. FTIR spectroscopy was utilized to analyze the green-synthesised ZnO nanoparticles. In vitro assays confirmed the nanoparticles’ glucose uptake-enhancing and anti-inflammatory activities, comparable to standard drugs. These findings indicate the potential of C. quadrangularis based ZnO nanoparticles as therapeutic agents for metabolic and inflammatory disorders.