Bio-fabrication and characterization of nano-silver using Kickxia elatine plant and its anti-diabetic effect on alloxan-induced Sprague Dawley rats - An in vivo approach

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent, fatal, and non-contagious diseases. Therefore, researchers are making attempts to develop novel anti-diabetic drugs using various organic compounds and biomolecules. The idea of using nano-materials as anti-diabetic agents seems interesting. The current study aims to develop Kickxia elatine (KE) extract-based nano-silver (KE-AgNPs) and to evaluate their in vivo anti-diabetic potency in female Sprague Dawley rats. KE-AgNPs were characterized using UV spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Electron Diffraction X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) techniques. The crystalline nature of KE-AgNPs with a size of 42.47 nm is confirmed by XRD screening. Spherical-shaped mono-dispersed KE-AgNPs with a mean size of 50 nm are validated by SEM examination. The different phyto-compounds (tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins, saponins, phenols, carbohydrates, quinones, sterols, fats, and oils) that contribute to the stabilization and reduction of KE-AgNPs are confirmed by FTIR analysis. EDX showed a strong peak (3.2 keV) that identified Ag as the main component with a 61.67% contribution. The use of Alloxan to induce diabetes resulted in elevated levels of blood sugar, HbA1c, liver, and lipid profile, as well as a drastic reduction in body weight, body organ weight, and Hemoglobin. These modifications were switched following 21 days of treatment of diabetic rats, and a dosage range of 150-450 mg kg(-1) BW of KE extract and KE-AgNPs demonstrated significant inhibition as compared with the diabetic untreated group. The phytochemical analysis of the KE plant was also assessed to examine the phyto-compounds involved in the anti-diabetic potential of KE extract and KE-AgNPs. These findings suggested that, in comparison with the KE extract, KE-AgNPs have demonstrated promising anti-diabetic action.