Silver Bio-Nanoparticles Synthesis from Tetraclinis articulata Leaves Extract and Their Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxicity Activities

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the potential of bio-silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) synthesized from Tetraclinis articulata extract, a Moroccan plant, for the treatment of inflammatory diseases related to oxidative stress, such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. The objective was to reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals by transferring the therapeutic properties of secondary metabolites of the plant to nanoparticles. The synthesis of Ag-NPs was carried out by an environmentally friendly method, using exclusively the plant extract. The results showed that the formation of nanoparticles induced a dark brown color change, accompanied by an absorption peak at 450 nm in the UV-visible spectrum, specific to nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed spherical nanoparticles of approximately 80 nm, and X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of silver. FTIR analysis identified phenolic compounds (flavonoids, polyphenols) and sugars, responsible for the reduction of silver ions and the stability of the nanoparticles. On the bioactive level, these nanoparticles showed a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, with an activity comparable to the control, without cellular toxicity, as confirmed by cell proliferation tests. These results open new perspectives for targeted therapeutic applications, highlighting the importance of sustainable synthesis methods.