Green-Synthesized FeSO4 Nanoparticles Exhibit Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Activity by DNA Degradation.

Objective: The current study reports a green, rapid and one-pot synthesis of FeSO4 nanoparticles using Hibiscus rosasinensis floral extract as a reducing and capping agent. 0.5M of FeSO4 was stirred with the floral extract of H. rosasinensis for around 20 minutes at 37ºC and pH 7.

Methods: The development of pink color was considered as the endpoint of reduction and the nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectrum, EDAX, DLS, FTIR, FESEM, and XRD. UV-Vis spectral analysis indicated a peak at 530 nm and EDAX measurement revealed the presence of Fe, S, O and C elements in the nanoparticle sample. The FTIR analysis showed amines, alcohol and alkene groups that act as capping agents for the produced nanoparticles. FESEM and XRD determination presented FeSO4 nanoparticles of 40-60 nm in size. The synthesized nanoparticles were found to have antibacterial activity against 6 pathogenic bacteria with MIC and MBC of 40 mg/mL.

Results: To determine the toxicity at the eukaryotic level, brine shrimp toxicity assay was conducted and 100% mortality was found at concentrations >0.06 mg/mL. Gel shift assay suggested the mechanism of toxicity of FeSO4 NPs by binding and degradation of DNA molecules.

Conclusion: From the results, the authors demonstrate the ease of green synthesis of FeSO4 nanoparticles and its bioactivity that may have potential applications as drugs and drug delivery systems against various diseases.