Synthesis of silver nanoparticles via eco-friendly green chemistry from Fragaria nubicola

Background: Nanotechnology offers innovative and sustainable solutions across diverse scientific fields, with green synthesis gaining attention as a safer and eco-friendly alternative to conventional nanoparticle production methods. Plant-mediated synthesis offers a safe alternative for producing biologically active nanoparticles suitable for biomedical applications. Fragaria nubicola, a medicinally important plant rich in bioactive compounds, represents a promising biological source for green nanoparticle synthesis. Leveraging such plant extracts not only minimizes environmental impact but also enhances the functional properties of nanoparticles. Objectives: In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using F. nubicola extract and systematically characterized to elucidate their structural and functional properties. Methods: The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Furthermore, the antiradical scavenging activity of plant-mediated nanoparticles was evaluated using the DPPH assay. Results: UV-visible analysis confirmed nanoparticle formation through a characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak at 420 nm. SEM images revealed predominantly crystalline particles with a size ranging from 74 to 107 nm, while EDS analysis confirmed the presence of elemental silver, indicated by a strong signal at 3 keV. XRD analysis further validated the crystalline nature of the AgNPs, with an average particle size of 69.5 nm. The phytogenically synthesized nanoparticles demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, exhibiting an 84.64% radical scavenging potential at a concentration of 80µg/ml, which was comparable to that of ascorbic acid. Conclusion: Collectively, this study establishes a robust, cost-effective, and eco-friendly strategy for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using F. nubicola. The notable antioxidant activity and green synthesis approach underscore the potential applicability of these AgNPs in nanomedicine, particularly in diagnostic and therapeutic applications.