Bio-synthesized AGS@AgNPs for wound healing, antioxidant support, antibacterial defense, and anticancer intervention

Slow wound healing and wound infections are significant challenges for burn patients. Biosynthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using plant extracts offers a rapid, facile, and safe method for producing biocompatible NPs. In this study, Anethum graveolens seed (AGS) extract served as a masking and reducing agent for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AGS@AgNPs). Initially, the parameters influencing AGS@AgNPs synthesis, including silver nitrate concentration, reaction time, temperature, and pH, were optimized. Subsequently, AGS@AgNPs structural and biological characteristics were evaluated. Observation of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the AGS@AgNPs at approximately 420 nm, accompanied by a color change of the suspension to dark brown, confirmed AGS@AgNPs synthesis. Analysis via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the production of pure, homogeneous, spherical, and stable silver NPs with sizes ranging from 20 to 40 nm using Anethum graveolens extract. Antibacterial assays revealed significant activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Antioxidant assessments demonstrated that AGS@AgNPs at a concentration of 250 μg/ml exhibited 92% inhibition of DPPH free radicals and in FRAP test, A. graveolens seed extract and AGS@AgNPs reduced Fe³⁺ ions to Fe²⁺ by 48.7% and 73.1%, respectively. Investigation of anticancer properties against the lung cancer cell line (A-549) revealed an IC₅₀ value of 242 μg/ml. The results of the flow cytometry test and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay demonstrated the death of cancer cells. Moreover, wound healing assays demonstrated a significant acceleration in burn wound closure rates in rats on days 3, 7, and 14 following treatments with AGS@AgNPs. Overall, these findings highlight the favorable biological activities of AGS@AgNPs, suggesting their potential utility in nanomedicine applications.