Biological Properties of Frangula alnus Using Copper Nanoparticles (CuNPs)

Abstract

This research looks at the effects of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on the biological characteristics of Frangula alnus, more popularly known as alder buckthorn.  Research on the synergistic effects of CuNPs and F. alnus extracts is being conducted in response to the growing interest in nanotechnology-based therapies that aim to enhance the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants.  via the use of F. alnus leaf extract, a reducing and stabilising agent, copper nanoparticles were produced via a green synthesis process.  The size, shape, and surface characteristics of the produced CuNPs were verified by means of XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis.  Assays for cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant status were used to evaluate the biological effectiveness of F. alnus that had been enhanced with CuNPs.  The findings showed that the antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains, as well as increased radical scavenging characteristics, were significantly improved compared to the crude extract alone.  Further evidence of possible anticancer action was provided by the mild cytotoxic effects of the CuNPs on several cancer cell lines. Combining nanotechnology with herbal medicine has the ability to increase the bioactivity of chemicals derived from plants, as shown in this research.  The results raise the possibility that CuNPs mediated by F. alnus might be useful in the creation of new medicinal and pharmacological compounds.  To clarify the precise mechanism of action, guarantee biocompatibility, and assure safety for therapeutic uses, more mechanistic and in vivo investigations are suggested.