Synthesis and Biosensor Applications of Metal/Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Camellia sinensis Cultivated in Rize Region

Nanostructures have found extensive applications across various research fields due to their superior properties, including high surface area-to-volume ratio, and unique optical, electrical, and mechanical characteristics. With increasing usage areas, the demand for nanostructures has grown significantly, and this situation has necessitated more synthesis processes. In this regard, studies have concentrated on improving the synthesis methods of nanostructures. Traditional synthesis approaches often involve harmful chemicals and generate toxic byproducts, raising environmental and health concerns. Green synthesis methods have been developed as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional approaches that use harmful chemicals. These "Green synthesis" methods enable the synthesis of nanostructures without requiring any chemicals, making the process more sustainable and cost-effective. Green synthesis, which is a branch of the "bottom-up" approach among nanoparticle synthesis methods, utilizes various biological sources as reducing and stabilizing agents. In green synthesis, metal nanoparticle synthesis is carried out using many biological sources such as sugars, vitamins, plant extracts, microorganisms, bacteria, algae, and fungi, each offering unique advantages in terms of biocompatibility and environmental safety. In this study, Camellia sinensis cultivated in the Rize region was employed for the green synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. The rich polyphenol content and antioxidant properties of Rize tea make it an excellent candidate for nanoparticle synthesis. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using advanced analytical techniques, and their potential applications in antimicrobial activity, catalysis, environmental remediation, and biomedical fields were thoroughly investigated. Results demonstrated that Rize tea serves as an effective biological source for environmentally friendly nanoparticle synthesis.