Ageratum conyzoides leaf extract mediated silver nanoparticles: a green study on antimicrobial, anticoagulant and wound healing properties

This study focused on the characterization and biomedical applications of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using Ageratum conyzoides leaf extract serving as both a capping and reducing agent. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The biomedical potential of AgNPs was evaluated through in vivo wound healing, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticoagulant, and thrombolytic assays. In wound healing studies conducted on rats, the AgNPs achieved an impressive wound closure rate of 96%. Additionally, they significantly downregulated total white blood cell counts in treated rats, suggesting enhanced protection against infections. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited remarkable anticoagulant activity, with efficacy rates of 41.5%, 81.5%, and 98.5% at concentrations of 50, 75, and 100 μg/ml, respectively. Their thrombolytic activity also increased with concentration, reaching 59.5%, 69.5%, and 77.5% at the same dosages. Notably, the AgNPs demonstrated potent antifungal properties, completely suppressing the mycelial growth of Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, and A. flavus at 100 μl/ml, with inhibition rates of 93.5%, 98.7%, and 92.4%, respectively. Furthermore, they effectively inhibited clinical bacterial strains and exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity, with rates of 90.96%, 88.09%, and 85.23% at 50, 75, and 100 μg/ml, respectively. In conclusion, AgNPs synthesized through this eco-friendly approach have demonstrated versatility in various biomedical applications, aligning with the health and innovation goals of Sustainable Development initiatives.