Green Synthesis of Zing Oxide Nanoparticles from Rutin: Charcterization & Evaluvation of Antimicrobial Antioxidant, Anti- Inflammatory Activity

Abstract: In the present study, rutin-mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles (Ru-ZnO NPs) were synthesized using a green and eco-friendly approach. The formation of nanoparticles was confirmed through visual observation and further characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM, and EDX analyses. The results revealed the successful synthesis of highly crystalline, pure ZnO nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 20 to 40 nm. FTIR analysis confirmed the role of rutin as a reducing and stabilizing agent, contributing to surface functionalization and enhanced stability of the nanoparticles. The biological activities of Ru-ZnO NPs were systematically evaluated. The nanoparticles exhibited dose-dependent antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Strong antioxidant activity was observed in DPPH and ABTS assays, with low IC₅₀ values, indicating effective free radical scavenging potential. Additionally, significant anti-inflammatory activity was demonstrated through protein denaturation inhibition and membrane stabilization assays. Cytotoxicity studies using KB oral cancer cells revealed a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect with an IC₅₀ value of 43.42 µg/mL, indicating promising anticancer potential. However, genotoxicity studies using zebrafish embryos showed that higher concentrations of nanoparticles induced developmental toxicity, suggesting the need for careful dose optimization. Overall, the synthesized Ru-ZnO nanoparticles exhibit multifunctional biological properties and hold significant potential for biomedical applications, although further studies are required to ensure their safety and efficacy.