Green-Synthesized Ag, ZnO, and CuO Nanoparticles: From Formation and Characterization to Biomedical Potential

Green synthesis of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles using plant extracts represents a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to obtaining functional nanomaterials with potential biomedical applications. Plant extracts are complex sources of bioactive compounds that may participate in nanoparticle reduction, formation, and stabilization, while the nature of the metal and synthesis conditions significantly influence nanoparticle formation and the properties of the resulting nanosystems. This study experimentally compares the green synthesis and physicochemical characteristics of silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles, while their biomedical potential is discussed in the context of previously published biological studies.

Nanoparticle formation was monitored by UV–Vis spectroscopy, while interactions between plant-derived biomolecules and the formed nanoparticles were investigated using FTIR spectroscopy. Particle morphology and size were determined by TEM analysis. Comparative evaluation revealed differences among Ag, ZnO, and CuO systems in terms of formation behavior, morphology, particle size, and stability. Silver was predominantly obtained as elemental Ag nanoparticles, whereas zinc and copper preferentially formed ZnO and CuO nanoparticles due to their greater susceptibility to oxidation.

The biomedical potential of the investigated nanosystems was comparatively discussed based on previously published studies, including available data on antitumor, antimicrobial, hemolytic, genotoxic, and antigenotoxic activities. This literature-based comparison was used to relate differences in nanoparticle composition and physicochemical characteristics to their reported biological effects. By integrating the experimental findings on green synthesis and physicochemical characterization with previously reported biological data, this comparative approach provides insight into how differences in nanoparticle composition, formation, and properties may influence their biomedical potential.