Sustainable Fabrication of Onion-Peel Biogenic Silica Nanoparticles for Multimodal Characterization and In Vitro Bioactivity Profiling

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: This study aims to develop a sustainable method for synthesizing Biogenic Silica Nanoparticles (bSNPs) from onion peel waste and evaluate their physicochemical properties and in vitro bioactivity. Methods: Biogenic Silica Nanoparticles (bSNPs) were prepared via an optimized acid–base sol–gel

method and characterized by SEM, EDX, AFM, FTIR, and XRD. Antioxidant activity (DPPH as- say), anti-inflammatory activity (protein denaturation), and DNA interaction (agarose gel) were as- sessed in vitro.

Results: Biogenic Silica Nanoparticles (bSNPs) exhibited nanoscale dimensions (~120–125 nm)

with spheroidal morphology and rough surface characteristics. FTIR and XRD confirmed amor- phous silica. Dose-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, as well as DNA binding,

were observed. Discussions: Biogenic Silica Nanoparticles (bSNPs) were synthesized from onion peel biomass via a two-acid sol–gel process. Spectroscopic and crystallographic analyses confirmed the successful synthesis of homogeneous amorphous silica. bSNPs exhibited effective biomolecular interactions. Conclusion: Onion peel-derived bSNPs are durable, environmentally friendly nanomaterials with promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and DNA-binding potential for biomedical applications.