Green Synthesis, Characterization, and In Vivo Anti-Plasmodial Activity of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Using Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract

Introduction: Green synthesis is a commonly used method in the preparation of metal nanoparticles due to its cost-effectiveness and environmentally friendly nature. Metal nanomaterials have demonstrated superior inhibitory properties compared to their corresponding biological extracts. In this study, Moringa oleifera-based copper oxide nanoparticles designated (CuONPMOLE) were synthesized using Moringa oleifera (MOLE) leaf extract and tested for their antiplasmodial effects in an in vivo model. Methods: The biosynthesized cuprite nanoparticles were characterized via UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Inhibitory activity of CuONPMOLE on Plasmodium berghei was evaluated in rats. Results: The results from SEM showed the morphology of CuONPMOLE, which appeared predominantly spherical, with some hollow areas. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of Cu atoms at 85.87%. The copper nanoparticles exhibited crystalline properties with an average size of 20.34 nm, and the XRD pattern displayed characteristic peaks corresponding to (111) and (200) reflections of the cubic cuprite crystal. The action CuONPMOLE against Plasmodium berghei parasites resulted in inhibitory activity of 43.37 ± 2.46%, demonstrating promising antiplasmodial activity and a notable decrease in malaria parasite growth (P<0.05). Conclusion: The effectiveness of CuONPMOLE could be attributed to the plant phytochemicals present along with copper ions.