Silver Nanoparticles Derived from <i>Artocarpus heterophyllus</i> for Antimicrobial Nano-gels:A Green Synthesis Approach

This study explores the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AH-AgNPs) from jackfruit (<i>Artocarpus heterophyllus</i>) leaf extract, leveraging its natural bioactive compounds. Using a Design of Experiments approach, the research optimized the production of AH-AgNPs, which were characterized by UV-Vis and FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM, and TEM. The nanoparticles, measuring 109.2 nm with a 90.15% entrapment efficiency, were incorporated into a Carbopol 940 gel. This gel demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, particularly effective against <i>E. coli</i>, outperforming a commercial silver nitrate formulation. The gel was light brown, uniform, with a nearly neutral pH and appropriate viscosity, highlighting its potential for treating pathogenic infections.