Holistic exploration of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Carthamus oxycantha leaf extracts: Characterization and assessment of antioxidant, anti-α-amylase, and anti-cholinesterase activities using comprehensive statistical methods

In the burgeoning field of nanotechnology, plant-mediated nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted significant attention due to their small size, favorable chemical properties, and eco-friendly nature. We utilized Carthamus oxycantha leaf extract to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and evaluate their potential as antioxidants and inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and alpha-amylase (alpha-amylase). The AgNPs were characterized using advanced techniques. The UV-Vis spectrum recorded at 410 nm, with an absorbance of 2.3 a.u., confirmed the presence of AgNPs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) indicated that functional groups from the extract were attached to the AgNP surface, aiding in their formation and stabilization. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) revealed four major peaks at 37, 43, 64, and 77, confirming AgNP synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that 80 % of the AgNPs were spherical, measuring 25-50 nm, while energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis indicated that silver constituted 83 % of the material. The AgNPs demonstrated significant scavenging activity: 59.3 % with ABTS, 67.2 % with ammonium molybdate, 60.35 % with DPPH, 65.2 % with ferric chloride, and 55.2 % with H2O2. Both alpha-amylase and AChE were inhibited by AgNPs, exhibiting uncompetitive inhibition characteristics. For glucophage, Km decreased from 143 to 75 mu g, and Vmax decreased from 45 % to 72 % as concentrations increased from 50 to 150 mu g. The Km of AgNPs decreased from 25 to 17 mu g, and Vmax decreased from 16 % to 37 %. The extract showed noncompetitive inhibition against alpha-amylase, while AgNPs caused noncompetitive inhibition in AChE. These findings highlight the potential of AgNPs as therapeutic agents for managing oxidative stress and enzyme-related disorders, paving the way for future research and applications in medicinal chemistry.