Naringin and Naringenin Functionalized Silver Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Flavonoids have been extensively investigated as reducing and stabilizing agents in the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. However, studies specifically employing pure naringin (NG) and naringenin (NGN) remain relatively scarce. Methods: In the present work, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized under controlled laboratory conditions using NG and NGN as bioreductants, and critical parameters governing nanoparticle formation were optimized. The synthesized AgNPs were comprehensively characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results: The characterization analyses confirmed the successful formation of predominantly spherical AgNPs with average particle sizes of 17 nm (AgNG) and 20.4 nm (AgNGN). DLS analysis indicated zeta potentials of approximately −30 mV and PDIs of 0.45 (AgNG) and 0.29 (AgNGN), consistent with stable colloidal dispersions. Biological evaluations revealed that both AgNP systems exhibited notable antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, cytogenetic assessment using the Allium cepa assay demonstrated concentration-dependent alterations in mitotic index and chromosomal integrity, indicating biological activity at cellular level. Conclusions: Collectively, these results underscore the potential of flavonoid-mediated synthesis as an eco-friendly and effective approach for generating stable, bioactive nanomaterials with promising biological applications.