Synthesis, Characterization, and Biomedical Applications of Gold Nanoparticles Using Iranian Native Henna Extract

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have been established as pivotal materials in contemporary science owed to their distinctive physiochemical properties and versatile applications, particularly in the field of nanomedicine. Their size-dependent optical and electronic properties have propelled them into multifaceted biomedical applications, spanning drug delivery and advanced medical imaging. The current research presents an innovative approach that harmonizes sustainable synthesis, thorough characterization, and the exploration of GNPs biomedical potential, utilizing an extract sourced from the Iranian native henna plant. The incorporation of natural extracts during nanoparticle synthesis aligns with the principles of green nanotechnology, fostering sustainability. Iranian native henna extract, esteemed for its rich phytochemical composition and traditional medicinal significance, emerges as an ideal candidate for GNP synthesis. Our pioneering method harnesses the distinctive attributes of henna extract as a green synthesis agent, facilitating an eco-friendly GNP production process. This innovative procedure involves gold salt as the precursor and henna extract as both the reduction agent and stabilizer. Not only does this method ensure environmental friendliness, but it also capitalizes on henna extract s inherent properties to effectively reduce gold ions into GNPs. The stabilizing nature of henna extract plays an essential role in preventing particle agglomeration, ensuring uniform GNP dispersion. The zeta potential analysis revealed that the GNPs carry a significant negative charge which is desirable for their biomedical applications and positions them as excellent candidates for drug loading and controlled drug release. The extensive characterization of the synthesized GNPs provides valuable insights into their intricate nature. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed their presence, with a distinct surface plasmon resonance peak at approximately 550 nm, indicating successful GNP synthesis and unique optical properties. A reduction in UV-Vis intensity affirms the conversion of gold ions into nanoparticles, validating the efficacy of our green synthesis approach. X-ray diffraction analysis uncovered a crystalline structure in its cubic form. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy corroborated the stability and complete surface coverage of GNPs by henna plant extract, emphasizing its role as both a reducing agent and stabilizer. Transmission electron microscopy provided an average particle size of approximately 40-60 nm and uniform distribution. Safety assessments, including cytotoxicity studies, yield reassuring results, showcasing negligible cytotoxicity. This monodispersed nature underscores the success of our green synthesis approach, further validating their potential for diverse biomedical applications. In the grand tapestry of green nanotechnology, our work stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable nanoparticle synthesis, resonating with far-reaching implications across scientific and medical landscapes.