Fuente: Molecules - Revista científica (MDPI) Molecules, Vol. 31, Pages 1351: Plant Bioactive Compounds at the Interface of Extraction Science, Green Nanoparticles and Applied Biotechnology: A Narrative Review
Molecules doi: 10.3390/molecules31081351
Authors:
Cristina-Ștefania Gălbău
Lorena Dima
Andrea Elena Neculau
Marius Irimie
Lea Pogačnik da Silva
Oana Bianca Oprea
Liviu Gaceu
Mihaela Badea

In the contemporary era, nanotechnology has become a central pillar in numerous domains, particularly in cosmetics, nanoelectronics, nanomedicine, and nanobiotechnology. Defined by its focus on materials with dimensions ranging from 0.1 to 100 nm, nanotechnology offers unique physicochemical properties—such as enhanced reactivity, conductivity, and permeability—attributable to the nanoscale. These properties facilitate greater interaction with biological systems, notably improving cellular uptake and functional efficacy. The increasing demand for eco-friendly and biocompatible nanomaterials has driven interest in green synthesis routes, particularly those utilising plant extracts. These methods stand out due to their low toxicity and environmental impact, positioning it as a safer alternative to conventional chemical or microbial methods. Plant-extract-mediated nanoparticles demonstrate promising applications in diagnostics, drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and neurotherapeutics. Their role in precision medicine, including gene and drug delivery and the imaging of neurological disorders, underscores green nanotechnology’s transformative potential. This review highlights recent advances in the synthesis, functionality, and biomedical applications of plant-based nanoparticles, emphasizing their relevance in in vitro models and prospective clinical settings.