UV-light mediated green synthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles using Cornelian cherry fruit extract and their comparative effects in experimental inflammation

The purpose of our study is to investigate the comparative effects of materials based on silver and gold nanoparticles functionalized with polyphenols from Cornus Mas extract (AgNPs-CM and AuNPs-CM) in vivo on experimental inflammation. The nanoparticles were obtained at room temperature under UV irradiation and were characterized by different methods: ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering. The modulatory effects of AgNPs-CM and AuNPs-CM on inflammation were quantified by oxidative stress parameters, pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines levels and apoptosis assessment at 2 h, 24 and 48 h after induction of inflammation with carrageenan in the paw tissue of Wistar rats. Our results showed that silver and gold nanoparticles only partial and for a short period have mobilized the antioxidant defense mechanisms. In addition, they diminished inflammation and apoptosis in the early stage while later, at 48 h, exerted an immunomodulatory effect, activated ERK ½ and induced apoptosis. The photoreduced silver and gold nanoparticles, functionalized with natural compounds, modulated the inflammation in a similar manner in the soft tissue injected with carrageenan. In order to decipher the mechanisms involved in interactions of metallic nanoparticles with biological systems and for a complete assessment of the risks and benefits of these products in clinical practice long term studies are necessary.