Morphology Controlled Hydrothermal Synthesis of ZnO NPs: Unlocking New Frontiers in Targeted Biomedical Applications
摘要
This study investigates the potential for biological activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesised using the hydrothermal method, a green and cost-effective approach that yielded nanosheet-like structures with high surface area and porosity. Structural and optical characterisation via XRD, UV–Vis, FTIR, and SEM confirmed the formation of nanocrystalline ZnO NPs with a band gap of 3.31 eV, indicative of high photocatalytic activity and suitability for biological interactions. The novelty of this work is a comprehensive biological assessment of ZnO NPs, extending beyond wound healing to incorporate systemic biochemical, haematological, antibacterial, antioxidant, molecular docking, and in silico toxicity analyses. In a rabbit wound infection model, ZnO NPs significantly improved healing results after 72 h, with reduced inflammation, accelerated re-epithelialization, and early signs of tissue regeneration. Infections- induced elevation in liver enzymes (AST, ALT), creatinine and abnormalities in lipid profiles and haematological parameters were detected by biochemical testing. ZnO NPs treatment significantly restored these levels to normal, demonstrating the improvement in hepatic, renal and haematological functioning. Furthermore, ZnO NPs showed broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both Streptococcus pneumonia and Klebsiella pneumonia by regulating toxicity-related receptors (PXR) and effective, dose-dependent antioxidant activity (DPPH scavenging: 69–88%). In silico toxicity modeling revealed organ-specific action, particularly affecting renal and pulmonary pathways. ZnO NPs’ adaptability and promise as a nanoplatform for wound healing with systemic biochemical advantages in combination with topical therapy are demonstrated throughout the entire study.