Biogenic Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Their Biomedical Applications: A Review

Abstract

Nanotechnology has inscribed novel perception into the material science and one of the most extensively used nanomaterials is Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) with healthcare and biomedical applications. Because of its outstanding biocompatibility, low toxicity, and low cost, ZnO NPs have become one of the most prominent metal oxide NPs in biological applications. This review highlights the different aspects of ZnO NPs, like their green synthesis as a substitute of conventional route due to avoidance of threat of hazardous, costly precursors and subsequent mostly therapeutic applications. Due to their wide bandwidth and high excitation binding energy, ZnO NPs have undergone extensive research. In addition to their potential applications as antibiotics, antioxidants, anti-diabetics, and cytotoxic agents, ZnO NPs also hold a promising future as an antiviral treatment for SARS-CoV-2. Zn has antiviral properties and may be effective against a variety of respiratory virus species, particularly SARS-CoV-2. This review includes a variety of topics, including the virus’s structural properties, an overview of infection mechanism, and current COVID-19 treatments. Nanotechnology-based techniques for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of COVID-19 are also discussed in this review.

Synergistic Anticandidal Effectiveness of Greenly Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Antifungal Agents against Nosocomial Candidal Pathogens

“…On the other hand, the antifungal properties of ZnO-NPs against candidal cells are attributed to the production of ROS, which interfere with the oxidative system of the fungal cell and oxidize crucial cellular components, including proteins, DNA, and enzymes [ 87 ]. This ultimately hinders the cellular enzymatic system, inhibits cellular replication, and triggers cell death [ 88 ]. The supposed mechanism of synergistic action between ZnO-NPs and nystatin antifungal agent could be due to the fact that nystatin decreased membrane permeability, enabling ZnO-NPs to penetrate the cell and interfere with DNA, proteins, and enzymes by generating ROS, culminating in the demise of the fungal cell [ 89 ].…”

Therapeutic Potential of Green-Engineered ZnO Nanoparticles on Rotenone-Exposed D. melanogaster (Oregon R+): Unveiling Ameliorated Biochemical, Cellular, and Behavioral Parameters

“…The functionalization of biogenic ZnO-NPs with specific biomolecules enables them to act as carriers for drugs, genes, or other therapeutic agents. This targeted delivery approach can improve drug efficacy and minimize side effects [ 93 ]. Drosophila offers several advantages as an in vivo model for nanomaterial safety assessment; its use provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and mechanism of action associated with nanomaterial exposure [ 94 ].…”

ZnO based 0–3D diverse nano-architectures, films and coatings for biomedical applications

“…Although ZnO has been researched extensively, thin films composed of 0–3D nano-architectures with promising thin film device bio-nanotechnology applications have rarely been reviewed. For example, several recent published reviews are focused on green synthesis of ZnO materials and biomedical applications 38–44 with major emphasis on the eco-friendly approach of the green synthesis route. Several reviews are focused on some particular biomedical applications such as antibacterial, 45–48 wound healing, 49 cancer therapy, 40,48 drug delivery, 50 bioimaging, 47,51 etc .…”