Effect of Aegle marmelos on Magnetite Nanoparticles in Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species Towards the Performance for Photocatalytic and Biological Applications

This study explores the synthesis and multifunctional properties of magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles (NPs) mediated by Aegle marmelos leaf extracts, with a focus on their photocatalytic performance and biological properties such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antibacterial activities. Fe₃O₄ NPs were synthesized using a soft chemical method, with Aegle marmelos leaf extracts serving as reducing and stabilizing agents. The synthesized Aegle marmelos-mediated Fe₃O₄ (AMFe₃O₄) NPs were thoroughly characterized for their structural, functional, morphological, compositional, optical, and magnetic properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the cubic spinel structure of Fe₃O₄, while UV–vis spectroscopy revealed an absorption peak at 354 nm. Transmission electron micrograph revealed slight agglomeration of the NPs with particle sizes ranging from 15 to 25 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) confirmed the presence of Fe, O, and N in the sample. The AMFe₃O₄ NPs exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity, achieving 95.13% degradation of Congo Red dye under sunlight irradiation within 120 min. Additionally, the antibacterial activity was significantly higher against Staphylococcus aureus than Escherichia coli bacteria. AMFe₃O₄ nanoparticles also demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory potential, with an inhibition rate of 96.14% (IC₅₀ of 261.45 μg/mL) compared to standard Diclofenac sodium, suggesting their potential for treating inflammation-related diseases and promoting tissue healing. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including photo-induced holes (h⁺), superoxide anions ( \({O}_{2}^{.-}\) $O_2^{.-}$ ) and hydroxyl radicals (OH⁻), was investigated through scavenger tests. This study highlights the role of bioactive compounds in enhancing the photocatalytic and biological activities of AMFe₃O₄ NPs, making them promising candidates for biomedicine and environmental remediation applications.