Abstract
This is the first report on the green synthesis of silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag2ONPs) using Nepeta cataria flower extract as a novel bioreducing and capping agent in an aqueous medium. This study aimed to describe these distinctive nanoparticles and explore their versatile biomedical applications through in silico molecular docking. UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM-EDX, Zeta Potential and DLS were used to characterize the synthesized Ag2ONPs. Their biological effects were measured based on antibacterial, antifungal, hemolytic, anticoagulant, and thrombolytic activities. Characterization confirmed the crystallization and formation of stable, crystalline, quasi-spherical Ag2ONPs, with an average crystallite size of 20.7 nm (XRD) and a particle size of 39 ± 2.4 nm (SEM). The zeta potential − 39 mV indicated excellent colloidal stability. The Ag2ONPs exhibited strong antibacterial activity (maximum inhibition zone of 30 mm against Bacillus subtilis) and potent antifungal activity (up to 83 mm) against Trichophyton rubrum. These nanoparticles were highly hemocompatible and exhibited strong anticoagulant and thrombolytic properties. To provide deeper insight into their antimicrobial action, this study uniquely integrated in silico molecular docking to explore interactions between the nanoparticles and key microbial protein targets. In summary, N. cataria L. flowers represent a promising new source of biocompatible Ag2ONPs with potent antimicrobial and hemo-modulatory properties, making them potential candidates for future therapeutic applications.
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Acknowledgements
This project was funded by Deanship of Scientific Research (DSR) at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, under grant number (IPP: 865-247-2025). The authors, therefore, acknowledge with thanks to DSR for technical and financial support.
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The plant material used in this study was collected from privately owned land. The plant species is not protected or endangered, and no special collection permission was required. Fresh human blood was collected from one of the authors, who voluntarily served as a healthy donor, after informed consent. The blood was used only for in vitro hemolytic, anticoagulant, and thrombolytic screening assays.
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Hassoubah, S.A., Qattan, S.Y., Sharawi, Z.W. et al. Eco-friendly synthesis of silver oxide nanoparticles using Nepeta cataria L. (Lamiaceae) flowers extract: a multifaceted study of their antimicrobial and hemocompatible potential. Sci Rep (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-53571-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-53571-8
