Green synthesis and characterization of selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) from the skin (testa) of Pistacia vera L. (Siirt pistachio) and investigation of antimicrobial and anticancer potentials

Abstract

Metallic nanoparticles created by ecologically friendly synthesis processes are becoming increasingly useful in a variety of applications. Because of their strong bioactive component qualities, biocompatible architectures, high stability, and low toxicity, green-produced selenium nanoparticles are particularly signifcant materials for various medicinal applications. Plants include a wealth of essential phytochemicals with therapeutic and medical capabilities. Pistachio vera L. (Siirt pistachio) is a seasonal fruit that is frequently consumed for its nutritional worth and health advantages. However, the outer colored skin of the P. vera (Siirt pistachio) fruit, which is not consumed, contains many biologically active compounds. In this study, plant-mediated synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) was successfully accomplished after adding the sodium selenite solution to the aqueous extract of P. vera colored skin waste. The synthesized Se NPs were characterized with UV–Vis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta distribution, atomic force microscope (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR), thermogravimetric (TGA) and diferential thermal analysis, X-ray difraction (XRD), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrum (EDX). Biogenic Pistacia vera (PV) PV-SeNPs were also tested for their ability to suppress the development of various pathogenic bacteria and cancerous cell lines. The UV-visible (UV–Vis) spectra revealed an absorption peak at 325 nm, which refected the surface plasmon band. The signifcant selenium signal on the EDX spectrum at 1.5 keV confrmed the creation of Se NPs. The presence of several peaks on the FTIR spectrum of the aqueous extract of Pv and the nanoparticles indicated the presence of some important functional groups such as amines, carbonyl compounds, and phenols, which are important in facilitating the process of capping and bioreduction, as well as conferring stability to nanoparticles. The TEM microphotographs revealed that the nanoparticles were highly distributed, had a spherical morphological form, and were monodisperse below 10 nm. Biogenic Pv-SeNPs exhibited similar antimicrobial activity as standard antibiotics. However, it was determined that the cytotoxic activity of Se-NPs against cancer cell lines was quite high depending on the dose and time. As a result, the Pv-SeNPs are likely to be extremely benefcial in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors, as well as in the food and cosmetic industries, in producing antimicrobial and/or anticancer medications.