Comparative versatility and diverse biological applications of eco-friendly zinc oxide and cobalt oxide nanoparticles using Punica granatum L. peel extract

A fundamental element of nanotechnology today is the advancement of sustainable, environmentally friendly and economically viable approaches to green synthesis of nanomaterials. In this study, fresh aqueous extract of pomegranate peels was used as reducing and stabilizing agents in a rapid and eco-friendly approach for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co₃O₄-NPs). X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), Energy Dispersive Analysis of X-rays (EDX), and Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used to analyze the biosynthesized ZnO-NPs and Co₃O₄-NPs. XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline structures of ZnO-NPs and Co₃O₄-NPs as approximately 33.4 and 11.9 nm, respectively. SEM images showed distinct morphologies, while EDX and elemental mapping confirmed compositional integrity. FT-IR validated the characteristic functional groups present in both nanoparticles. TEM analysis provide the average particle size of ZnO-NPs and Co₃O₄-NPs were observed at 41.25 and 17.19 nm, respectively. The zeta potential of green synthesized ZnO-NPs and Co₃O₄-NPs were found to have a distinct peak at −12.5 and −16.3 mV, respectively. Both NPs have shown potent antimicrobial activity against four common pathogens, with increased antimicrobial activity against increasing concentrations of NPs. In vivo studies show a protective role for both ZnO-NPs and Co₃O₄-NPs against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced toxicity. In addition, Co₃O₄-NPs were effective against hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and endocrine disruption in male albino rats. Multi-technique investigation in this study offers a comprehensive understanding and indicates promising biological applications of ZnO-NPs and Co₃O₄-NPs.