Comparative assessment of Anti‑inflammatory and catalytic properties of chemically synthesised and green‑synthesised silver nanoparticles from Ziziphus spina‑christi leaf extract

Abstract

Background Green synthesis is chosen for its environmental friendliness, as it eliminates the need for toxic chemicals by using natural compounds as reducing and stabilising agents. This research investigates the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) through green methods, utilising Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extract, and compares them with commercially avail- able silver nanoparticles. Aim The study compares the structural, morphological, physicochemical, toxicity, anti-inflammatory, and catalytic proper- ties of green-synthesized Ag-NPs (GS-Ag-NPs) with commercial Ag-NPs (CS-Ag-NPs). Methods Various techniques, including UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, energy-dispersive X-ray spec- troscopy, zeta potential analysis, and thermal gravimetric analysis were employed to characterise the synthesised Ag-NPs. In vitro toxicity assessments, anti-inflammatory activity assays, and catalytic activity studies were conducted to evaluate the biocompatibility, anti-inflammatory, and catalytic properties of the synthesised Ag-NPs. Results The results indicate that GS-Ag-NPs exhibit a more uniform size distribution (20.23 nm) and spherical morphology than commercial Ag-NPs, which have a larger size (38.2 nm). In vitro toxicity assessments show that GS-Ag-NPs are more biocompatible, with minimal haemolysis (3.2 ± 0.1%) compared to commercial Ag-NPs (19 ± 0.48%). Additionally, GS- Ag-NPs demonstrate enhanced anti-inflammatory activity (19.04%) and slightly higher catalytic activity in dye degradation processes at lower dye concentrations. Conclusion This comparative analysis highlights the advantages of green synthesis methods in producing biocompatible, stable, and functionally superior Ag-NPs. The findings suggest the potential of GS-Ag-NPs for applications in various fields, including biomedicine, catalysis, and environmental remediation