Green synthesis of ZnO and Ag-doped ZnO nanoparticles using Azadirachta indica leaves: Characterization and their potential antibacterial, antidiabetic, and wound-healing activities

Abstract Eco-friendly green synthesis approach has been employed for the formation of ZnO and Ag-doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) using the aqueous extract of Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaves as the reducing agent. Surface morphology was evaluated with scanning electron microscopy while crystalline size confirmed by X-ray diffractometer. The band gap of green synthesized ZnO and Ag doped ZnO was found to be 3.39 eV and 3.25 eV, respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy data revealed the existence of a functional group that could be acted as the capping agent. Antibacterial activity of Ag doped ZnO with inhibition zone of 19 mm and 16 mm was found against cocci and E. coli respectively. Antidiabetic activity evaluated in α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assay at concentrations of 100 µg/mL and 200 µg/mL. Furthermore, the in vitro wound-healing potential of green-synthesized ZnO and Ag-ZnO NPs mediated neem leaves (NL) was assessed on albino rats using chitosan hydrogel membrane as the wound dressing material.