Synthesis of Nanoparticles Using Fruit Waste and Its Pharmacological & Catalytic Applications: A Review.

Nanoscience has evolved in the recent past with potential applications in nanomedicine, nano-bioremediation, catalysis, and other applications. Utilization of plant extract, bacteria, algae, and other organic feedstock for nanoparticle (NP) synthesis has provided the backbone of green nanoscience aims at the synthesis of eco-friendly NPs. The presence of different functional groups/organic molecules in plant extract serves as a source of reducing and capping agents during NP synthesis. Among the plant-based sources, agro-fruit waste is considered to be an appropriate source as utilization of organic waste for NP synthesis renders an eco-friendly, economic, stable, and effective for food waste management, which is otherwise a challenge. In addition, fruit waste (extract)-based NP has reportedly exhibited superior biological activities compared to plant/food extract alone. The synthesized nanoparticles are superlative for many pharmacological and catalytic applications due to their outstanding features. These nanoparticles increased bioavailability and biocompatibility and have been linked to their considerable promise in pharmacology for drug transport, antibacterial action, and cancer therapy. They have demonstrated their effectiveness and reusability by being used catalytically in environmental remediation processes that include the breakdown of organic contaminants and the decrease of harmful metal ions. The present study aims to provide an overview of the state-of-the-art in sustainable nanotechnology by emphasizing the mutual advantages of waste reduction and high-value nanomaterial creation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]