Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles from Aegle marmelos Extract: Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Anticancer Properties

Background

Aegle marmelos, commonly known as bael, is a medicinal plant native to India with well-established use in traditional medicine systems.

Materials and Methods

This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and Anti-Cancer Properties of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) synthesized from Aegle marmelos, a medicinal plant native to India. Gold nanoparticles were synthesized through a green synthesis method using extracts from Aegle marmelos leaves and fruits as reducing and stabilizing agents. The physicochemical properties of the AuNPs were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). Antioxidant activity was assessed with DPPH, ABTS, reducing power, Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) scavenging and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays. Anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated through albumin denaturation and heat-induced hemolysis assays. Cytotoxicity against HT-29 cells was investigated using acridine orange staining and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) assay.

Results and Discussion

The synthesized AuNPs demonstrated significant antioxidant activity across all tested assays, indicating effective combat against oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory tests showed considerable inhibition of albumin denaturation and suppression of hemolysis, reflecting strong anti-inflammatory effects. Notably, the AuNPs exhibited substantial cytotoxicity against HT-29 cells, with concentration-dependent apoptosis and differential effects observed between nanoparticles derived from leaves and fruits.

Conclusion

AuNPs synthesized from Aegle marmelos leaves and fruits possess remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. These findings highlight their potential as therapeutic agents in the fields of nano medicine and pharmacology, supporting further exploration of Aegle marmelos-derived AuNPs for clinical applications.