Eco-Friendly Green Synthesis Of Canthium Parviflorum-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles: A Dual Therapeutic Approach Against Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity
Kalaivanan Seeni, Srinivasan R.Introduction:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity are major metabolic disorders associated with insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and dyslipidemia. This study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Canthium parviflorum leaf extract through a green synthesis approach and evaluate their therapeutic potential against diabetes and obesity.
Methods:
AgNPs were synthesized using ethanolic leaf extract of C. parviflorum and characterized by UV–Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, TEM, and dynamic light scattering analyses. In vitro studies included antioxidant assays (DPPH and ABTS), inhibition of α-amylase and pancreatic lipase, Phytochemical Association Efficiency, and release profiling. Acute and Subacute toxicity studies were performed in accordance with OECD guidelines. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats.
Results:
The biosynthesized AgNPs were spherical, stable, and measured 10–30 nm in size. Phytochemical association efficiency was approximately 78%, with sustained phytochemical release reaching 92% within 24 hours. AgNPs exhibited strong antioxidant activity and inhibited α-amylase (65%) and pancreatic lipase (59%). Toxicity studies demonstrated safety up to 2000 mg/kg. In vivo treatment significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, body weight, and food intake while increasing HDL cholesterol levels.
Discussion:
The therapeutic effects may be attributed to antioxidant activity, digestive enzyme inhibition, and improved metabolic regulation. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms were not directly investigated and require further study.
Conclusion:
Canthium parviflorum-mediated AgNPs demonstrated promising antidiabetic and anti-obesity activities with a favorable safety profile. These findings support their potential as an eco-friendly nanotherapeutic platform for managing metabolic disorders.