Biogenic Synthesis of Nanomaterials: Bioactive Compounds as Reducing, and Capping Agents

Nanotechnology is the work done at a nano level to create or modify a biological compound for greater good. There is a wide range of bioactive compounds derived from algae bacteria and plants like phenolic compounds, carotenoids, tannins, organic acids, omega-3 fatty acids, etc. which are used for the production of nanoparticles. Secondary metabolites, phytochemicals and various compounds can act as bio-compounds and are being widely used in different fields like pharmaceutical, medicinal, and environmental products. Bioactive compounds (BACs) can modulate metabolic processes and promote better health. They exhibit antioxidant activity in which these bioactive compounds can scavenge free radicals in the body and can prevent oxidative damages and heart problems. Bioactive compounds can also inhibit receptor systems to block certain signals and stimulation or inhibition of enzymes and gene expressions. They can be also used in treatments for cancer, inflammatory diseases, microbial infections and other medical conditions. These days Nanoparticles are also used in drug delivery, they promote controlled release of BACs improving distribution of prescribed drug in the blood stream for a longer period of time and improve beneficial effects on target tissue or organ. The use of capping agents for controlling growth, aggregation, and physical and chemical properties is the key area of concern in the synthesis of nanoparticles. In our work, we have majorly focused on green synthesis of Au, Cu, Ag and Fe nanoparticles which display exceptional attributes and higher surface area and have potential application in numerous fields including food, sensors, optics and most importantly in medicine, they have attracted much attention of the researchers due to their promising bioactivates and non-toxic nature. Graphical Abstract