Green synthesis, characterization and antidiabetic effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized using aqueous extract of Cydonia graveolens

This study focused on the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using the aqueous extract of C. graveolens and evaluated their antidiabetic activity. The extract served as both a reducing and capping agent. Synthesized ZnO-NPs were characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM, and Zetasizer to determine their structural, morphological, and optical properties. Characterization confirmed the successful formation of spherical, crystalline ZnO-NPs with sizes ranging from 20–50 nm. FTIR spectra indicated the role of hydroxyl and carbonyl groups in nanoparticle stabilization. The antidiabetic activity of the ZnO-NPs was assessed through in vitro alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase inhibition assays. A concentration-dependent increase in alpha-glucosidase inhibition was observed, with inhibition rates of 67.8% at 50 µg/mL and 86.9% at 100 µg/mL. Similarly, alpha-amylase inhibition reached 81.7% at 100 µg/mL. These findings suggest that the enhanced activity may be due to the synergistic effects of zinc ions and phytochemicals from the plant extract. Overall, green-synthesized ZnO-NPs from C. graveolens demonstrate significant in vitro antidiabetic potential via dual enzyme inhibition. Further in vivo and clinical studies are recommended to confirm their therapeutic efficacy and safety, positioning them as a natural and cost-effective approach for managing type 2 diabetes.